Bangladesh urges Saudi Arabia to reduce Hajj airfare, accommodation costs

Dhaka: Bangladesh has urged Saudi Arabia to help reduce the cost of Hajj by lowering taxes and charges on Hajj flights and reinstating a lower-cost accommodation category for Bangladeshi pilgrims.

The request was made during a meeting between Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, and Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr. Abdullah ibn Dhafer ibn Ubayya at the ministry in the Bangladesh Secretariat on July 13, said a press release from the ministry.

During the meeting, Minister Khanam said reducing Saudi-imposed taxes and charges on Hajj flights would significantly ease the financial burden on thousands of Bangladeshi pilgrims. She sought the ambassador's support in this regard.

The Saudi envoy responded positively, assuring the Bangladesh side that the matter would be considered and that necessary cooperation would be extended.

State Minister Millat also raised concerns over the absence of Category D accommodation for Bangladeshi pilgrims, saying its discontinuation has led to a substantial increase in housing costs during Hajj. He requested Saudi authorities reinstate the category to make the pilgrimage more affordable for Bangladeshis.

The ambassador said the Saudi government remains committed to improving services and facilities for Bangladeshi pilgrims while keeping Hajj expenses at a reasonable level. He assured the delegation of Saudi Arabia's continued support and cooperation.

The meeting also reviewed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia, particularly in civil aviation, tourism, and Hajj management.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding collaboration in these sectors and further deepening the longstanding friendly relations between the two countries.