Govt committed to safeguarding pilgrims’ best interests: Adviser Khalid

Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain has said the government remains committed to safeguarding the best interests of Hajj pilgrims.He recalled that airfares were reduced by around Tk 27,000 last year and added that efforts are underway this year as well to keep ticket prices at a reasonable level.The adviser was speaking on Wednesday at a workshop on increasing the number of pilgrims under government management for Hajj 2026, held at the Dhaka Hajj Office conference room in Ashkona.Dr Khalid said there is strong public demand to reduce Hajj expenses, but it is not possible for the government to lower costs at will. “We cannot reduce expenses determined by the Saudi government, particularly on their end. We can only negotiate to some extent on airfare and house rent. We are working to rationally determine airfares,” he said.He stressed that the government has no commercial interest in Hajj management. “The government ...

• 24 Sep 2025