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The three-day National Hajj and Umrah Fair 2025 has officially begun at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon, in Dhaka.
Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain inaugurated the fair today, organised by the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB).
The fair, which will run for three days, offers a platform for Hajj- and Umrah-related services and information. Attendees can access detailed reports on the pilgrimage, various booklets, and special discounts on packages from participating agencies.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Hossain thanked all involved in organising the fair, emphasising the successful management of the previous Hajj season.
He noted that, with HAAB’s coordination with the Ministry of Religious Affairs, no complaints were received from Bangladeshi pilgrims during Hajj 2025. He also reassured that steps are already being taken to streamline Hajj preparations for 2026.
Addressing some challenges faced by Hajj pilgrims, Dr Hossain mentioned the issue of dietary preferences, pointing out that Bangladeshi pilgrims often find it difficult to adjust to Saudi Arabian food. The government would request Saudi authorities to provide food more aligned with Bangladeshi tastes, he said.
Dr. Hossain added that another concern raised was the shortage of water at Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat grounds during Hajj, forcing pilgrims to perform ablution using mineral water.
Besides, he noted the uncomfortable sleeping arrangements in Mina, where the provided beds fail to meet the needs of pilgrims. “If other issues arise, we will coordinate with the Saudi authorities to find solutions,” he assured.
HAAB Secretary General Farid Ahmed emphasised the fair’s significance in allowing prospective pilgrims to directly negotiate and finalise contracts with Hajj agencies, cutting out middlemen. He also mentioned that discounts between Tk 10,000 and Tk 20,000 are being offered on various Hajj and Umrah packages.
Farid, however, expressed concern over the potential impact of new rules in the 2026 Hajj roadmap, including mandatory catering services and house rental regulations via Muallim. These changes could increase both the hardships and expenses for pilgrims, he added.
He confirmed that the Ministry of Religious Affairs has already reached out to Saudi Arabia for clarification on these matters.
HAAB President Syed Ghulam Sarwar and other members of the organisation were present at the inaugural ceremony.