Deadline extended for Hajj visa applications from Bangladesh

Saudi Arabia has extended the deadline for Hajj visa applications from Bangladesh.

The time for filing the documents had ended on Thursday, but applications will still be accepted on Saturday, Hajj Office Director Md Saiful Islam told bdnews24.com.

Bangladesh authorities had sought an extension until Monday. "They told us they'll accept forms on Saturday."

"They didn’t say they will not accept applications on Sunday. So we are guessing they have accepted our request."

As per the kingdom's quota system, 127,198 pilgrims from Bangladesh can perform Hajj this year.

But complications in securing visa, increased rent and guide fees have led to cancellation of 29 flights from Bangladesh to Saudi Arabia.

Saudi authorities issued visas for 122,422 people during the official period and did not have any pending requests. Therefore, requests are yet to be filed for another 4,776 individuals.

So far, 73,045 Bangladeshis have travelled to Saudi Arabia for Hajj this year, which is expected to start on Aug 30, but may vary depending on the sighting of the moon.

Biman Bangladesh, the national flag carrier, will continue Hajj flights until Aug 26. Saudi Arabian Airlines has scheduled flights until Aug 27.