Hajj flights to begin April 18: Kaikobad

Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad has informed that Hajj flights for 2026 pilgrimage will commence on April 18, as overall preparations have reached the final stage. 

He made the statement on Tuesday during a question-and-answer session in the Jatiya Sangsad, responding to a query from Cox's Bazar-3 lawmaker Lutfur Rahman regarding government initiatives to reduce Hajj expenses.

The minister said the 2026 Hajj package has already been finalized, with most operational procedures completed. Payments covering both Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia components have been settled, and all required formalities-including visa processing-have been completed in line with the Saudi authorities' schedule. This readiness, he added, allows flights to begin as planned.

Addressing concerns over rising costs, he noted that the government is considering measures to reduce expenses in the 2027 Hajj package, taking into account the needs of pilgrims and the overall economic context.

Earlier, at a meeting held at the Ministry of Religious Affairs, the minister stressed the importance of ensuring smooth, efficient, and pilgrim-friendly Hajj management. 

He instructed relevant stakeholders to complete all remaining tasks promptly and to ensure maximum comfort and service quality for pilgrims.