Dhaka: Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam today announced the government's commitment to creating an affordable, safe, and transparent Hajj management system, alongside initiatives to enhance the commission for Hajj agencies.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks while serving as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the three-day National Hajj and Umrah Fair-2026. The event was organized by the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB) at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center in Dhaka. Afroza emphasized the spiritual significance of Hajj and the need for all involved to fulfill their duties with honesty and integrity, mindful of their accountability to Almighty Allah.
Afroza highlighted that under the directives of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the government has taken effective measures to make the Hajj pilgrimage more affordable and less burdensome. She assured that the government will implement positive steps to ensure a fair increase in the commission for Hajj agencies.
The minister criticized the previous practice where pilgrims were forced to pay inflated airfares due to an airfare syndicate, which the government dismantled upon taking office. She noted that within five months, the government successfully reduced the Hajj airfare by Tk 36,800 and is working to lessen the airfare-related levy imposed by the Saudi government.
Afroza also sought prayers from the attendees for the successful implementation of the government's commitments as outlined in their election manifesto. The event commenced with a special prayer and munajat for the late former minister Harunur Rashid Munnu.
The ceremony was attended by HAAB leaders, Hajj and Umrah service providers, and a large number of prospective Hajj pilgrims.