Staff Reporter :
Biman Bangladesh Airlines has announced that it will not be able to open temporary offices in Makkah and Madinah this year to assist Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims, citing recent restrictions under Saudi Arabia’s visa policy.
Each year, the state-owned carrier establishes temporary operational units in the two holy cities to facilitate a smooth and organized return journey for pilgrims. But in a press release issued on Thursday, Biman said the effort has been thwarted by an unexpected suspension of visa issuance for citizens of 14 countries – Bangladesh among them.
Despite completing all necessary preparations and formalities, including visa applications for its officials, Biman says its staff remain unable to enter the kingdom to offer in-person support during the crucial post-Hajj travel period.
“This is an unforeseen development that is entirely beyond our control,” the airline said in the statement, addressed to both Hajj agencies and pilgrims. “We had completed all logistical arrangements to ensure uninterrupted support for pilgrims in Makkah and Madinah, but the Saudi visa embargo has prevented deployment of our staff.”
In lieu of on-site assistance in Saudi Arabia, Biman has urged Hajj pilgrims and agencies to reach out to its main office in Dhaka’s Motijheel or its regional offices in Chattogram and Sylhet. These offices will handle matters such as ticket changes and other logistical needs related to the return journey.
For urgent issues during the Hajj period, Biman has advised contacting its permanent offices in Jeddah and Madinah, which remain operational.
This year’s Hajj, expected to draw over two million Muslims from across the world, is taking place under tight visa scrutiny from Saudi authorities amid a broader review of foreign workforce policies. It remains unclear when the temporary visa restriction will be lifted.
Biman has expressed hope for a quick resolution but acknowledged that, for now, remote coordination will be essential.
