Bangladesh Urges Saudi Arabia to Cut Hajj Flight Charges

Bangladesh has urged Saudi Arabia to reduce Hajj flight-related taxes and charges to help lower the overall cost of pilgrimage for Bangladeshi pilgrims. Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr. Abdullah Ibn Dhafer Ibn Ubayya said the request would be given positive consideration.

The issue was discussed on Monday during a courtesy meeting at the Secretariat between Bangladesh's Adviser for Civil Aviation and Tourism, Afrozza Khanam, State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, and the Saudi ambassador.

The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation in civil aviation, tourism, and Hajj management.

Afrozza Khanam said lowering Saudi-imposed taxes and charges on Hajj flights would significantly reduce expenses for thousands of Bangladeshi pilgrims and sought the ambassador's support on the matter.

In response, the Saudi envoy assured that the proposal would be positively considered and pledged the necessary cooperation.

During the meeting, Rashiduzzaman Millat also raised concerns over the absence of Category D accommodation for Bangladeshi pilgrims, saying it has significantly increased housing costs per pilgrim. He requested Saudi authorities to restore the category in the interest of Bangladeshi Hajj pilgrims.

The Saudi ambassador reiterated Saudi Arabia's commitment to improving services for Bangladeshi pilgrims, enhancing facilities, and keeping Hajj costs at a reasonable level through continued cooperation.

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing their resolve to further strengthen Bangladesh-Saudi Arabia relations and expand collaboration in Hajj management, civil aviation, and tourism.