Dhaka: A total of 6,175 Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims have returned home from Saudi Arabia as of Sunday following the completion of this year's Hajj held on June 26. The pilgrims' return marks the end of a significant spiritual journey undertaken by thousands of Muslims worldwide.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, 15 return flights were operated by three designated carriers to facilitate the return of the pilgrims. These carriers include Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Saudia Airlines, and Flynas Airlines. An official stated that Biman Bangladesh Airlines operated one flight, Saudia Airlines managed another, and Flynas Airlines operated two flights.
The Hajj office reported that among the returning pilgrims, 416 were under government management. Meanwhile, 5,759 pilgrims arranged their travel through private agencies. The return flights comprised three flights by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, four by Saudia Airlines, and eight by Flynas Airlines.
Tragically, at least 37 Bangladeshi pilgrims passed away in Saudi Arabia during Hajj. The deceased included 24 males and 13 females, with 27 deaths occurring in Makkah and 10 in Madinah. No deaths were reported in Jeddah, Mina, or Muzdalifah.
This year's Hajj operations began with the first outbound flight on April 18 and concluded on May 21. The return Hajj flights commenced on May 30 and will continue until June 30.