Strict measures announced for Hajj pilgrims

Ministry of Religious Affairs has urged all Hajj pilgrims to strictly avoid carrying any prohibited items during their journey to Saudi Arabia, whether for personal use or at the request of agencies or third parties.

Under Saudi regulations, several items are strictly banned from being carried in luggage. These include narcotics, tobacco leaves, jarda, gul, betel leaves, dried fish, cooked food and other perishable goods. 

These restrictions are clearly outlined in the Hajj Package and Guidelines 2026 issued by the ministry.

Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad) said that despite repeated warnings in previous years, prohibited items continue to be found in the luggage of Bangladeshi pilgrims at Saudi airports. 

He warned that such incidents damage the country’s image internationally and urged pilgrims to remain cautious and responsible.

Religious Affairs Secretary Munshi Alauddin Al-Azad emphasized the serious legal consequences of violating these rules. 

He stated that anyone found carrying prohibited items could face strict penalties under Saudi law, which may jeopardize their ability to complete the Hajj pilgrimage.

The ministry has reiterated that no restricted goods should be carried under any circumstances to ensure a smooth and respectful pilgrimage experience.

This year, 78,500 pilgrims from Bangladesh are expected to perform Hajj, with flights scheduled to begin on April 18.

SH