Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain has stated that only physically able individuals should be allowed to register for Hajj, emphasising that those who are seriously ill or physically unfit will not be permitted to perform the pilgrimage.
He made the remarks on Thursday morning while addressing the opening ceremony of the National Hajj and Umrah Fair 2025 at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon, Dhaka.
The event was organised by the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB) to connect aspiring pilgrims with licensed Hajj agencies.
Dr Khalid noted that taking physically unfit individuals to Hajj often results in complications and embarrassment for the government. “Instructions have been issued to Civil Surgeons not to issue fitness certificates to those suffering from incurable diseases or with severe physical limitations,” he said. He also urged Hajj agencies not to include such individuals in their pilgrimage groups.
Reflecting on this year’s successful Hajj operations, Dr Khalid added, “We were able to deliver a smooth and well-managed Hajj in 2025. Preparations for Hajj 2026 are already underway, and we aim to make it even better.”
Highlighting the importance of the Hajj and Umrah Fair, he said it serves as a vital platform to enhance interaction between pilgrims and agencies, raise awareness of Hajj management processes, and help pilgrims choose suitable packages according to their means. He commended HAAB for organising the fair.
Dr Khalid clarified that there is no conflict between the Ministry and HAAB. “We are working together with mutual respect and a shared goal of serving the interests of Hajj pilgrims,” he said, assuring the ministry’s full support for HAAB’s initiatives.
He also raised concerns about illegal activities linked to some Hajj agencies, including transporting banned substances in pilgrims’ luggage and smuggling gold on return flights. “Such acts damage the country’s image. I strongly urge agencies to refrain from these practices,” he warned.
The adviser also expressed concern over the role of intermediaries in the Hajj registration process, stating that their involvement inflates costs and often leads to fraud. He urged prospective pilgrims to directly contact agency owners or their authorised representatives when arranging for Hajj. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of signing formal agreements with Hajj agencies and ensuring proper training for all pilgrims.
Earlier in the event, Dr Khalid unveiled the latest issue of Hajj Barta, HAAB’s official publication, marking the occasion.
The three-day fair features 154 stalls representing the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Hajj agencies, and banks involved in Hajj operations. Visitors can access a range of Hajj-related services and information, including opportunities for early registration. The fair will conclude with a closing ceremony on August 16.
The opening ceremony was presided over by HAAB President Syed Ghulam Sarwar. Special guests included Religious Affairs Secretary AKM Aftab Hossain Pramanik, Deputy Head of Mission of the Saudi Embassy in Dhaka Ibrahim Abdullah Al-Ahmari, and HAAB Secretary General Farid Ahmed Majumder.
Following the ceremony, the adviser visited various stalls at the fair.