FE REPORT
Bangladeshi intending Hajj 2026 pilgrims could submit their visa applications through Nusak Masar platform from February 8 until March 20 this year.
Nusak Masar is the official Saudi platform for booking Hajj packages, mandatory for international pilgrims to obtain visas.
Pilgrims must register, upload documents (passport and photo), select packages (including flights, accommodation, and transport) directly on the portal to secure their spot and obtain visas.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs in a circular issued on January 29, 2026 disclosed the information.
A high official at the religious affairs ministry said that health checkups for intending Hajj pilgrims (under government and private management) is going on at the designated government hospitals.
As per the Saudi government directives, the intending Hajj pilgrims must submit their visa application forms through their respective agencies with health fitness certificates after completing their health check-up and geting vaccinated.
The ministry official further sad that all Bangladeshi intending Hajj pilgrims have been asked to submit visa application forms after completing all required health-related tests by March 20, 2026.
This year none of the pilgrims could travel to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for performing Hajj without health screening and obtaining vaccination certificate.
Approximately 78,500 people from Bangladesh are expected to perform Hajj in 2026 under a bilateral agreement signed with Saudi Arabia.
The figure marks a reduction from the 2025 quota.
Hajj flights are scheduled to begin on April 18, 2026, with over 76,000 pilgrims already registered as of January 2026.
The holy Hajj for 2026 is expected to be performed on May 26-31, with the congregation at Arafat Maidan on May 26, subject to the moon sighting in Saudi Arabia.
Pilgrims are advised to follow official announcements from Saudi authorities regarding the exact dates.
talhabinhabib@yahoo.com
