Bangladesh has sought Saudi Arabia's cooperation in reducing the cost of Hajj for Bangladeshi pilgrims by requesting lower taxes and charges on Hajj flights and the reinstatement of D-category accommodation.

The requests were raised during a courtesy meeting between Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam, State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat and Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr. Abdullah ibn Dhafer ibn Ubayya at the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism at the Bangladesh Secretariat, according to a press release.

Minister Afroza Khanam said reducing Saudi-imposed taxes and charges on Hajj-related flights would significantly lower travel expenses for thousands of Bangladeshi pilgrims. She sought the Saudi government's support in easing the financial burden on pilgrims.

In response, the Saudi ambassador said the proposals would be given positive consideration and assured Bangladesh of the Kingdom's cooperation.

State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat said the discontinuation of Category-D accommodation for Bangladeshi pilgrims had substantially increased housing costs for each pilgrim. He requested the Saudi authorities to reinstate the category to help make Hajj more affordable for Bangladeshis.

The Saudi ambassador said Saudi Arabia remains committed to improving services and facilities for Bangladeshi pilgrims while keeping Hajj costs at a reasonable level. He pledged to take the necessary initiatives and extend all possible cooperation to support those efforts.

The meeting also reviewed ways to strengthen the longstanding bilateral relationship between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia, with discussions focusing on expanding cooperation in civil aviation, tourism and Hajj management.

Both sides expressed their commitment to further deepening collaboration in these sectors, particularly in improving Hajj services for Bangladeshi pilgrims.