The deadline for registration for next year’s Hajj ends Sunday. As of Thursday night, only 55,652 pilgrims have registered under both government and private quotas, leaving 71,545 out of the allocated 127,198 slots unfilled.
To address the low registration numbers, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has written to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, urging a reduction in airfare to help fill the quota.
Religious Advisor Dr. A.F.M. Khalid Hossain recently issued a demi-official letter (DO) to Civil Aviation and Tourism Advisor A.F. Hassan Arif, recommending an additional airfare reduction of BDT 27,820, bringing the total to BDT 140,000.
He highlighted that lowering airfare would make it easier to meet the Hajj quota, enhance Bangladesh’s standing with the Saudi government, and provide commercial benefits to Biman Bangladesh Airlines.
Commenting on the matter, Khalid Hossain stated that the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism has yet to provide a formal response. He added, “If necessary, we will open Hajj transportation to third carriers, allowing any airline to transport pilgrims”.
Currently, Hajj flights from Bangladesh are operated by three airlines: the state-owned Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Saudi carriers Saudia and Flynas.
On October 30, 2025, the government announced two official Hajj packages. The budget-friendly package was priced at BDT 479,242, while the other cost BDT 575,680, both reflecting a minimum airfare reduction of BDT 27,000 compared to 2024.
However, the packages now require pilgrims to pay an additional BDT 40,000 for meals and 750 Saudi Riyals for Qurbani, as these costs are no longer included. Last year, meal expenses were part of the package.
In line with the government packages, private agencies have also introduced multiple options while continuing to advocate for further airfare reductions.
Source: StafNew’s
