Staff Correspondent

Minister for Religious Affairs Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad) has officially requested the Saudi government to maintain the backup accommodation quota at 1 percent for Bangladeshi pilgrims for the upcoming 2027 Hajj.

The appeal was made during a meeting with the Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Bangladesh, Dr. Abdullah Zafer H. Bin Abiyah, at the Saudi Embassy in Gulshan on Monday afternoon.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia recently set the mandatory backup accommodation quota at 2 percent for the 2027 Hajj pilgrimage. Pointing out that this increase would drive up overall expenses for pilgrims, the Religious Affairs Minister urged that the rate be kept at 1 percent, matching the arrangement maintained for the 2026 Hajj season.

Responding to the appeal, the Saudi Ambassador confirmed that he received a semi-official letter from the Ministry of Religious Affairs concerning the matter and has already forwarded it to authorities in Riyadh with a positive recommendation. He praised Bangladesh's efficient Hajj management this year and expressed satisfaction with the ministry's swift handling of bilateral coordination.

The ministry's formal communication also raised additional proposals, including making catering services optional and adjusting the pricing for Service Package-3 to match the value of Service Package 'D' in Mina and Arafat.

During the discussions, Minister Kaikobad thanked the Ambassador for his instrumental role in facilitating a smooth, orderly, and well-organized Hajj operation this year, while both sides explored avenues to further strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties between the two nations.

Upon his arrival at the embassy, the Religious Affairs Minister was warmly received by the Ambassador and senior diplomatic officials.