Religious Ministry Urges Bangladeshis to Avoid Hajj Without Official Permit

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued a statement urging Bangladeshi nationals residing in Saudi Arabia not to perform Hajj without obtaining an official permit. The request aims to support effective Hajj management, ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims, and maintain the strong bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia.

Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. A F M Khalid Hossain echoed the ministry’s message, urging citizens to strictly avoid performing Hajj without proper authorization.

Additionally, the ministry cautioned Bangladeshis against staying in Mecca or other sacred sites on visit visas during the Hajj season. It also called on all Bangladeshis to refrain from sponsoring, transporting, or assisting individuals with visit visas in entering restricted Hajj zones or arranging accommodations for them, as these actions violate Saudi regulations.

The statement highlighted that Saudi Arabia has introduced stricter rules this year to manage the flow of pilgrims, reduce overcrowding, and strengthen security. According to the new regulations, access to Mecca is limited to individuals who possess a valid work permit for the holy sites, a registered residency certificate (Iqamah), or a government-issued Hajj permit.

The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced that violators attempting to perform Hajj without a permit could face fines of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals. Those who assist violators may be fined up to 100,000 Riyals, and in proven cases, their vehicles may be confiscated by court order.

Foreign nationals who overstay or attempt unauthorized Hajj will face deportation and be banned from reentering Saudi Arabia for 10 years. These enforcement measures will be in effect from Zilqad 1 (April 29) to Zilhaj 14 (June 10), during which time entry into Mecca or nearby sacred areas without valid permits will be strictly prohibited. Visitors on tourist visas will be under close scrutiny.

Adviser Khalid Hossain emphasized the importance of complying with Saudi laws for the smooth operation of Hajj and the broader interests of the Muslim community. He also noted that Bangladesh has substantial stakes in maintaining strong ties with Saudi Arabia, where over 3.5 million Bangladeshis are employed, contributing the highest share of remittances to the country.

"Any violations could negatively affect our bilateral relationship," the statement warned, reaffirming the government's commitment to orderly and respectful Hajj management in collaboration with Saudi authorities.