Dhaka: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman announced today that his government aims to further reduce the expenses for pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia for Hajj from next year, enabling more Muslim devotees to undertake the pilgrimage at a lower cost.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Prime Minister highlighted the reduction of Taka12,000 per ticket in airfare for this year’s Hajj flights. He expressed his commitment to continue seeking ways to lower costs for future pilgrims, despite the current limitations faced as the government was newly formed when most preparations for this year’s Hajj had already been completed.
Addressing the pilgrims at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, Rahman sought their prayers for the country’s peace and prosperity. He also urged them to pray for his government’s success in addressing national challenges such as unemployment.
The Prime Minister inaugurated this year’s Hajj flight, BG3001, which was scheduled to depart for King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, carrying 418 pilgrims. Rahman interacted with the passengers onboard and participated in a prayer for the successful completion of the Hajj rituals.
The event was attended by several dignitaries including the Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad), Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam (Rita), State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, and the Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh, Dr. Abdullah Zafer bin Abiyah.
Earlier, the Prime Minister visited the Ashkona Hajj Camp to meet with pilgrims, demonstrating his support and well wishes for their journey.
The Religious Affairs Ministry reported that a total of 14 flights are scheduled for today, operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Saudia airlines, and Flynas. The pre-hajj flights will conclude on May 21, with a total of 207 flights planned. Bangladesh is set to send approximately 78,500 pilgrims this year, with 4,565 under government management and the rest through private agencies.
Biman Bangladesh Airlines will transport about half of the pilgrims, with the remaining traveling via Saudia and Flynas. The Hajj is expected to take place on May 26, 2026, with return flights scheduled to begin on May 30 and continue until July 1.