Bangladesh urges Saudi Arabia to cut Hajj costs, envoy pledges support

The Saudi Arabian ambassador says the request will receive "positive consideration"

Civil Aviation Minister Afroza Khanam has called for lower Hajj costs for pilgrims, a request Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Zafer H bin Abiyah has promised to consider “positively”.

The two met at the minister's office at the Secretariat on Monday afternoon, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism said.

Both sides stressed strengthening and diversifying the “friendly” bilateral relations between the countries, with detailed discussions on boosting cooperation in civil aviation, tourism and Hajj management, it added.

Afroza said reducing Saudi-imposed taxes and charges on Hajj flights would significantly benefit Bangladesh's large number of pilgrims, seeking the ambassador's cooperation on the matter.

The ambassador assured her of positive consideration and pledged support, as per the ministry.

State Minister for Civil Aviation M Rashiduzzaman Millat said the absence of Category-D accommodation for Bangladeshi pilgrims has driven up per-pilgrim accommodation costs, and sought Saudi authorities' cooperation in restoring the category.

The Saudi envoy said his government is sincere about improving service quality, increasing facilities, and keeping Hajj expenses at a rational level, promising to work towards all cooperation and initiatives to achieve this goal.