B Mirror Desk : The Ministry of Religious Affairs has made a formal request to Bangladeshi residents living in Saudi Arabia, warning them not to attempt Hajj without a valid permit.
The request seeks to promote effective Hajj management, protect pilgrims’ well-being, and maintain the friendly relationship between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia.Dr. A F M Khalid Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Religious Affairs, stressed that all Bangladeshi citizens must rigorously follow Saudi Arabia’s Hajj laws.
He cautioned them to avoid participating in the pilgrimage without permission, which might have major legal and diplomatic ramifications.
In order to better manage crowds, improve safety, and expedite access to Mecca, Saudi authorities have implemented stricter regulations this year. Only those with valid Hajj permits, registered residency in Mecca (Iqamah), or official authorization to work in the holy sites will be allowed entry during the Hajj period. The Ministry also warned Bangladeshis against staying in Mecca or nearby holy sites on visit visas during the current Hajj season. Additionally, citizens have been advised not to support or assist others who attempt to perform Hajj without valid permits, including by offering accommodations, transportation, sponsorship, or assistance in entering restricted Hajj areas.
According to the Saudi Ministry of Interior, those who violate the Hajj laws risk deportation and a 10-year ban from returning to the Kingdom. Unauthorized pilgrims could be fined up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals, while those who help them could be fined up to 100,000 Riyals and have their vehicles seized upon court order.
From the 1st of Zilqad (April 29) to the 14th of Zilhaj (June 10), only those with appropriate documentation will be allowed access to Mecca and surrounding sacred areas. Dr. Hossain emphasized that Bangladesh has significant national interests tied to Saudi Arabia, including the presence of approximately 3.5 million Bangladeshi workers and the highest volume of remittance inflows. He warned that non-compliance will
