Govt to reduce Hajj package costs from 2027, Kaikobad tells Parliament

Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad has said the 2026 Hajj package is in its final stages of preparation, adding that the government is working to reduce Hajj costs from 2027.

The minister shared the government’s plan in the Parliament on Tuesday (7 April) while responding to Cox’s Bazar-3 MP Lutfur Rahman’s query regarding the government’s initiatives to make Hajj more affordable.

The answers of the unstarred questions were placed in the House rather than being asked and answered orally on the floor.

Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad said that the Hajj flights for this year will begin on 18 April. “Efforts are underway to minimize Hajj expenses by reviewing various service sectors. Steps will be taken to reduce the costs when the 2027 package will be prepared and announced,” he said.

Replying to another question from Dhaka-18 MP SM Jahangir Hossain, the minister also shared updates regarding the 2026 Hajj package in the House, addressing key concerns over package pricing, flight schedules, and the safety of pilgrims at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka.

The lawmaker in his question raised the issue about the security and movement of pilgrims in the airport. In response, the minister detailed a multi-layered logistics plan.

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The ministry has coordinated with the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) to implement a ‘Dedicated Traffic Route’ to ensure seamless transit between the Hajj camp and the airport. Pilgrims arriving from across the country will enter the Hajj Camp via a newly constructed road passing the Civil Aviation Community Center to avoid congestion. A one-way traffic system has been introduced for pilgrim-carrying buses to ensure they reach the terminal within minutes.

He also said that Saudi Arabian immigration formalities will be completed at Dhaka airport, allowing pilgrims to exit directly upon arrival in Saudi Arabia without further checks.

The minister also highlighted the medical support system, stating that a medical center will operate 24/7 at the Hajj Camp. One dedicated ambulance will remain on standby for emergencies. Furthermore, a 24/7 control room has been established to monitor all activities, and the ‘Labbayk’ mobile app will be used to track the location and travel status of every pilgrim. For immediate assistance, pilgrims can reach out to the ‘16136’ call center at any time.