Bangladesh’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has directed that all outstanding house rental arrangements for Hajj pilgrims in Mecca and Medina must be completed by 8pm today (April 14), warning of administrative action against agencies failing to comply.

The urgent directive, issued late on Sunday (April 13), targets 20 lead agencies that have yet to finalise accommodation for 1,265 pilgrims in Mecca and 93 in Medina ahead of the 2025 Hajj.

According to the ministry, a total of 683 agencies under 70 lead operators are involved in this year’s Hajj arrangements. While the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah initially set a February 14 deadline for transportation and accommodation contracts, this was later extended to March 25. A further grace period was granted until April 3 for those still pending.

However, Saudi authorities closed the 'tasriya' (tent housing) option on Sunday (13 April), leaving 'tansia'—hotel accommodation—as the only remaining option. The ministry noted that this too could be closed without notice, heightening the urgency of the situation.

Repeated communications, meetings, and reminders—including mobile messages and official letters—have failed to ensure compliance from the 20 lead agencies, the ministry said. As a result, the Hajj journey of the affected pilgrims is now at risk.

Officials warned that failure to meet the 8pm deadline today will lead to strict administrative measures, including the possible cancellation of licenses, under the Hajj and Umrah Management Act 2021 and Rules 2022.

The final deadline for issuing visas to Hajj pilgrims remains set for April 18.

BDST: 1125 HRS, APR 14, 2025
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