The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has clearly stated that no visa other than the designated “Hajj visa” will be considered valid for performing the holy Hajj.
In an official statement issued on Sunday, the ministry clarified that the only legally approved way to perform Hajj is through an official Hajj visa.
As a result, those staying in Saudi Arabia on visit visas, transit visas, Umrah visas, or tourist visas will not be allowed to take part in any Hajj rituals. Although the rules are somewhat different for Saudi citizens and expatriates living in the country, they too must obtain the necessary permits through the “Nusuk” application.
According to a report by the Saudi Gazette, authorities have decided not to allow individuals holding visit or tourist visas to perform Hajj. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah emphasized that all official bookings or reservations must be completed only through authorized channels.
The ministry has strictly warned against making Hajj bookings through any unauthorized or fraudulent channels. Every year during the Hajj season, dishonest groups mislead ordinary people with false promises of arranging illegal Hajj trips. This early warning has been issued to strictly curb such activities.
Meanwhile, the schedule for this year’s first Hajj flight from Bangladesh has been finalized. According to a notice from the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, the first Hajj flight will depart for Saudi Arabia at 2:00 AM on April 18 from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
Prime Minister Tarek Rahman will formally inaugurate this year’s Hajj operations. To ensure smooth travel for pilgrims, the chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority has already inspected the airport and Hajj camp facilities.
Under Saudi Arabia’s new directive, foreign pilgrims must have the designated Hajj visa. Failure to comply may lead to legal complications as well as exclusion from participating in Hajj rituals.
Expatriates residing in Saudi Arabia have also been urged to confirm their bookings through the designated app. The Government of Bangladesh has formed a special cell to ensure all preparations and safety measures for pilgrims, while Biman Bangladesh Airlines and other partners are working to operate all flights on schedule.
