Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain inaugurated The three-day National Hajj and Umrah Fair 2025 at Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon today. Photo : PID

DHAKA, Aug 14, 2025 (BSS) - The three-day National Hajj and Umrah Fair 2025 has officially begun at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon in the city. 

Religious Affairs Adviser Dr. AFM Khalid Hossain inaugurated the event the fair today, organized by the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB).

The fair, which will run for three days, offers a platform for Hajj and Umrah-related services and information. Attendees can access detailed reports on the pilgrimage, various booklets and special discounts on packages from participating agencies.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Hossain thanked all involved in organizing the fair, emphasizing the successful management of the previous Hajj season. 

He noted that with the HAAB's coordination with the Ministry of Religious Affairs, no complaints were received from Bangladeshi pilgrims during Hajj 2025. He also reassured that steps are already being taken to streamline Hajj preparations for 2026.

About some challenges faced by Hajj pilgrims, Dr. Hossain said that the issue of dietary preferences, pointing out which Bangladeshi pilgrims often find it difficult to adjust to the Saudi Arabian food. The government would request Saudi authorities to provide food more aligned with Bangladeshi tastes, he said.

Dr. Hossain said that another concern raised was the shortage of water at the Mina, Muzdalifah and Arafat grounds during Hajj, forcing the pilgrims often to perform ablution using mineral water. 

Besides, he said the uncomfortable sleeping arrangements in Mina, where the provided beds fail to meet the needs of pilgrims. "If other issues arise, we will coordinate with the Saudi authorities to find solutions," he assured.

HAAB Secretary General Farid Ahmed emphasized the fair's significance in allowing prospective pilgrims to directly negotiate and finalize contracts with Hajj agencies, cutting out middlemen. He also mentioned that discounts between Taka 10,000 and Taka 20,000 are being offered on various Hajj and Umrah packages.

Farid, however, expressed concern over the potential impact of new rules in the 2026 Hajj roadmap, including mandatory catering services and house rental regulations via Muallim. These changes could increase both the hardships and expenses for pilgrims, he added. 

He confirmed that the Ministry of Religious Affairs has already reached out to Saudi Arabia for clarification on these matters.

HAAB President Syed Ghulam Sarwar and other members of the organization were present at the inaugural ceremony.