Bangladesh urges Saudi Arabia to lower Hajj airfare, accommodation costs

Bangladesh has requested Saudi Arabia to help reduce the overall cost of Hajj for its pilgrims by lowering taxes and charges on Hajj flights and restoring a lower-cost accommodation option.

The request was raised 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’s office in the Bangladesh Secretariat on Monday, according to a press release.

During the meeting, Minister Afroza Khanam said a reduction in Saudi-imposed taxes and charges on Hajj flights would significantly lessen the financial burden on Bangladeshi pilgrims. She sought the Saudi government’s support in making the pilgrimage more affordable.

In response, the ambassador said the proposal would be given positive consideration and assured Bangladesh of Saudi Arabia’s cooperation on the matter.

State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat highlighted the increased accommodation expenses faced by Bangladeshi pilgrims following the discontinuation of Category D lodging.

He urged the Saudi authorities to reinstate the category to help bring down pilgrims’ overall costs.

The Saudi ambassador said his government is committed to improving services and facilities for Bangladeshi pilgrims while ensuring that Hajj expenses remain at a reasonable level.

He also pledged to extend the necessary support in this regard.

The meeting also focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation in civil aviation, tourism, and Hajj management. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further expanding collaboration in these sectors and deepening the longstanding friendly ties between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia.