The government has taken steps to drive down the overall cost of Hajj journeys by reducing airfares and securing extra amenities for pilgrims.
State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat outlined the plans on Thursday while opening a three-day national Hajj and Umrah fair at the China-Bangladesh Friendship Centre in Dhaka.
According to him, the government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman prioritises creating “affordable, hassle-free” Hajj packages for Bangladeshi pilgrims under the "Bangladesh First" principle.
Reflecting on government efforts to lower expenses, Millat noted that ticket prices were reduced by Tk 12,000 last year and cut further by Tk 25,000 this year, bringing the fare down to Tk 130,000.
He added that his ministry asked Saudi authorities to lower airport development fees levied on air tickets.
Millat said extensive discussions had also been held with the Saudi ambassador on introducing special measures to cut accommodation costs for devotees.
He sought prayers from the audience as the administration works to fulfil its election manifesto commitments, while warning that any agency seeking to defraud pilgrims will face severe penalties.
Religious Affairs Secretary Munshi Alauddin Al Azad said only about five per cent performed Hajj through government channels, while the remaining 95 per cent relied on private agencies.
The Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB) organised the fair.
Khalid Saeed Al Hadal, deputy chief of mission at the Royal Saudi Embassy, HAAB President Syed Golam Sarwar, and Secretary General Farid Ahmed Majumder were present at the event.
The organisers said visitors to the national Hajj and Umrah fair would find leading Hajj agencies, a range of Hajj packages, essential information, expert advice and special discounts on selected packages under one roof.
The fair will remain open from 10am to 8pm each day with free entry for visitors and will conclude on Saturday.