Biman to start Hajj flights from tomorrow

Biman Bangladesh Airlines will start its dedicated Hajj flights tomorrow (Thursday) as Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the Hajj Programme-2024 today.
The first flight will depart from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) in Dhaka at 7.00 am on that day to Jeddah, according to a press release issued Tuesday.
Biman Bangladesh will also operate dedicated flights for the pilgrims from Chattogram and Sylhet airports landing in Jeddah and Medina airports.
Out of total 116 pre-Hajj flights, 82 will be operated on the Dhaka-Jeddah route, 17 on the Chattogram-Jeddah route, 5 on the Sylhet-Jeddah route, 9 on the Dhaka-Medina route, 2 on the Chattogram-Medina route and 1 on the Sylhet-Medina route.
The airline has deployed adequate number of manpower in Jeddah and Medina to facilitate the journey of the pilgrims. Adequate manpower has also been arranged at the Biman's boarding and immigration counters set up at the Hajj office in Dhaka.
This year, a total of 86,527 pilgrims from Bangladesh will go to perform the hajj. Biman will carry 43,899 pilgrims which is almost 50 per cent of the total number.
The pilgrims would be allowed to carry 46 kilograms essential goods in two bags with them.
Meanwhile UNB report adds: Saudi Arabia has clarified its new policy, introducing travel restrictions for Hajj pilgrims - confining their movements exclusively to Jeddah, Medina, and Mecca.
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah announced that individuals visiting Saudi Arabia on a Hajj visa are prohibited from traveling outside these three cities.
The visa is designed solely for pilgrimage purposes and does not permit holders to engage in work, seek residency, or travel beyond Jeddah, Medina, and Mecca.
Violations of these restrictions could result in severe penalties, including deportation and a potential ban on future Hajj participation, according to a Gulf News report.
Furthermore, the Ministry clarified that all international visitors, except those from GCC countries who do not require a Hajj permit, must secure a Hajj visa through the official channels.
To streamline the application process, the Ministry's website now facilitates electronic registration for the Hajj visa via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' visa platform. Applicants are required to log in, select the required service, and follow detailed instructions for document submission.
The deadline for Hajj visa applications is set for the 7th of Dhu Al Hijjah, or until the designated quota of pilgrims is met. Processing typically takes up to three working days, and applicants are urged to apply early to adhere to all regulatory requirements.

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