Staff Reporter :
Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain announced on Monday that the government is offering new Hajj packages at affordable costs.
In an interview with UNB, the Adviser stated that prospective Hajj pilgrims can expect a more accessible and comfortable package, complete with high-quality service.
The 2025 Hajj package, set to be unveiled on October 30, will feature special discounts aimed at making the pilgrimage more affordable. Khalid Hossain emphasized the government’s commitment to reducing travel and accommodation expenses for pilgrims.
“We held a productive meeting with representatives from Biman, the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), and the National Board of Revenue (NBR) on October 22 regarding this issue.
Biman has agreed in principle to lower costs, and CAAB and NBR have pledged to waive certain fees,” the Adviser stated. He noted that these waivers could reduce costs by approximately Tk 10,000 per pilgrim.
The government is focused on lowering airfares and hotel rental costs, with Hossain personally inspecting accommodation options in Makkah and Madinah. By prioritizing these expenses, the government aims to significantly reduce overall Hajj costs.
The Adviser outlined the primary cost components for Hajj, including airfare, hotel rentals in Makkah and Madinah, tent rentals, and meals in Mina and Arafat, as well as costs for buses, guides, visa processing, health insurance, and sacrificial animals.
However, he emphasized that airfares and hotel costs in Makkah and Madinah are the main areas where expenses can be minimized.
The government plans to offer two distinct packages for pilgrims, with accommodations located within one and a half to two and a half kilometers from the Haram Sharif. Although the Riyal has appreciated by Tk 2, adjustments have been made to maintain affordability.
Initiating Sea Travel to Reduce Costs: The Adviser also mentioned that the government is exploring a sea route to Saudi Arabia, which could help pilgrims save up to 40 percent on travel expenses.
However, he acknowledged logistical challenges, including the need for large sea vessels, which are currently lacking in the country.
The Ministry has approached Bangladesh’s largest shipping company for potential collaboration, contingent on securing a Tk 1 crore fund to lease the necessary vessels. While awaiting formal approval from Saudi authorities, Hossain remains hopeful about the initiative.
“There is considerable interest in traveling by sea for Hajj, and we hope to open this option, potentially by next year,” he said.
However, he noted that a sea journey would take significantly longer-about 16 days round-trip-and would require coordinated efforts for immigration, security, and healthcare on board.
Addressing concerns about transparency and possible irregularities, Khalid Hossain stressed the government’s zero-tolerance policy.
“Hajj pilgrims are guests of Allah, and any form of deception or malpractice will be met with strict legal action,” he asserted.
The Adviser also hinted at changes to the government-funded Hajj program, indicating that it may be scaled back next year and potentially phased out.
“While complete discontinuation may not be feasible, efforts will be made to bring it to a more manageable level,” he stated.
