Bangladesh Bank (BB) has directed all authorised dealer banks to facilitate the transfer of funds for expenses related to the Saudi phase of the 2027 Hajj through designated International Bank Account Number (IBAN) accounts in Saudi Arabia.

The central bank's Foreign Exchange Policy Department (FEPD-1) issued a circular on Tuesday, conveying instructions from the Ministry of Religious Affairs to ensure smooth management of the upcoming Hajj.

Under the directive, expenses for pilgrims registered under both government and private management for the Saudi phase must be remitted through designated bank accounts operated by the Ministry of Religious Affairs at Sonali Bank's Local Office and Ramna Corporate Branch.

In the case of private management, individual Hajj agencies must directly transfer funds for enhanced accommodation packages, hotel rentals, agreements with service providers and transport contracts to the respective IBAN accounts in Saudi Arabia through banks involved in Hajj operations.

According to the government-announced Hajj packages for 2027, expenses for the Saudi phase range from Tk 3,62,911.86 to Tk 4,70,090.42 per pilgrim.

However, special packages offered by private agencies may exceed the maximum amount.

The central bank has instructed all concerned commercial banks to take immediate administrative measures to ensure that the funds are transferred within the stipulated deadlines.

The move is aimed at meeting Saudi Arabia's Hajj roadmap requirements, including accommodation arrangements, Mina-Arafah tent bookings and service contracts.