Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has said that his government aims to further lower the cost of performing Hajj from next year, easing the financial burden on Muslim pilgrims traveling to Saudi Arabia.
Speaking at the inauguration of this year’s Hajj flights at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport late Friday night, the premier said airfare for pilgrims had already been reduced by Tk12,000 per ticket this year.
“We will make efforts to cut costs further next year, so that future pilgrims can perform Hajj at more affordable rates,” he said.
The prime minister noted that the government had limited scope to introduce major changes this year, as most arrangements for the pilgrimage had been finalised before it assumed office. “Despite that, we have tried our best to provide as much relief as possible,” he added.
Addressing the pilgrims, Tarique Rahman, also BNP chairman, requested prayers for the nation and its people. “You are going to the house of Allah. When you raise your hands in prayer, Allah will grant His blessings. Please pray so that peace prevails across the country,” he said.
He also sought prayers for his administration, expressing hope that his government would be able to address key challenges, including unemployment, and govern effectively. The prime minister wished the pilgrims good health and a safe journey.
Earlier, Tarique Rahman formally flagged off the first Hajj flight, BG3001, at 11:57pm. The flight, carrying 418 pilgrims, was scheduled to depart for Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport at 12:20am.
Arriving at the airport around 11:30pm, the prime minister boarded the aircraft, where he greeted passengers individually and exchanged handshakes. He also joined a special prayer session onboard, seeking divine blessings for the successful completion of Hajj rituals.
Several dignitaries were present at the event, including Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain Kaikobad, Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain, Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam Rita, State Minister M Rashiduzzaman Millat, and Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Abdullah Zafer bin Abiyah.
Before the airport ceremony, the prime minister visited the Ashkona Hajj Camp, where he interacted with pilgrims.
According to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, a total of 14 Hajj flights are scheduled for the day-six operated by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, four by Saudia, and four by Flynas.
Pre-Hajj flight operations will continue until 21 May, with a total of 207 flights planned. Of these, Biman Bangladesh Airlines will operate 102 flights, Saudia 75, and Flynas 30.
Bangladesh, one of the largest contributors of Hajj pilgrims globally, is expected to send approximately 78,500 pilgrims this year. Among them, 4,565 will travel under government arrangements, while 73,935 will go through private agencies.
Roughly half of the pilgrims will be transported by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, with the rest traveling via Saudia and Flynas.
Subject to moon sighting, Hajj is likely to take place on 26 May, 2026. Return flights are scheduled to begin on 30 May and will continue until 1 July following the completion of the pilgrimage.
