The Ministry of Religious Affairs has requested that no one perform Hajj without an official Hajj permit. This appeal has been made to Bangladeshis both at home and abroad, including those currently residing in Saudi Arabia.

The decision was taken for ensuring an orderly and well-managed Hajj, safeguarding the welfare of pilgrims, and preserving the longstanding friendly relations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia.

The ministry has also issued instructions not to travel to Makkah or any of the holy sites in Saudi Arabia during the current Hajj season using a visit visa. Furthermore, Bangladeshis have been urged not to sponsor, transport, assist in gaining entry to restricted Hajj zones, or provide accommodation—whether in hotels or private residences—to individuals holding visit visas who are attempting to perform Hajj in violation of the regulations.

In an effort to streamline the entry of pilgrims into Makkah, manage overcrowding, and enhance security, the Saudi government has introduced new regulations this year. According to these rules, entry into the holy areas requires a valid permit from the relevant Saudi authority, proof of legal residence in Makkah (Iqama), and an official Hajj permit. Without these documents, access to Makkah is strictly prohibited.

The Saudi Ministry of Interior has announced a strict stance for the upcoming Hajj season. Any individual attempting to perform Hajj without a permit may face a fine of up to 20,000 Saudi Riyals. Moreover, anyone assisting such individuals may be fined up to 100,000 Saudi Riyals. In addition to financial penalties, vehicles used in the act may be confiscated following a court ruling. The Saudi government further warned that any foreign national who overstays their permitted time or attempts to perform Hajj without proper authorisation will be deported and barred from re-entering Saudi Arabia for ten years.

The regulations will be enforced from the 1st of Jilqad (29 April) until the 14th of Zilhajj (10 June).

Highlighting the importance of enforcing laws for effective Hajj management, Religious Affairs Adviser Dr A. F. M. Khalid Hossain said that following the rules and regulations set by the Saudi government is essential to ensure a smooth and orderly Hajj. He noted that numerous interests link Bangladesh with Saudi Arabia. Around 3.5 million Bangladeshis work in the Kingdom, which is also the largest source of remittances for Bangladesh. Therefore, it is imperative that all parties refrain from actions that could negatively impact bilateral relations.