Umrah travelers and agencies are facing significant disruptions as the Saudi government has almost completely halted the issuance of Umrah visas without prior notice.
This sudden decision has left thousands of pilgrims stranded, with many travel agencies scrambling to adjust their plans.
While the reasons behind the abrupt policy change remain unclear, it has created huge uncertainty for those planning to embark on the sacred journey.
In a special interview with UNB, Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain said that the Saudi government had initially opened Umrah visas through the Nusuk app, allowing millions of pilgrims to travel to Saudi Arabia.
However, due to overcrowding, particularly in Makkah and Madinah, the Saudi government has drastically reduced the issuance of Umrah visas by 90%.
More people are now in Saudi Arabia than during the Hajj season, creating an environment where worship is no longer feasible.
The adviser mentioned that this decision has caused significant concern among Bangladeshi Umrah travelers.
He said “We wrote a letter to the Saudi ambassador on Saturday (March 15) expressing our concerns. They have not replied to us yet.”
To address these challenges, the adviser said that they would hold a meeting with authorities concerned and contact the Saudi government. He also expressed optimism that the issue would be resolved very soon.
Regarding the refund of ticket money, he confirmed that his ministry is in contact with airlines to ensure that ticket money will be refunded, though a small cancellation fee will be deducted.
The adviser also mentioned that this situation does not seem to affect Bangladeshis alone, as other countries are experiencing similar issues.
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He speculated that the Saudi government may have temporarily halted the visa issuance due to the overwhelming pressure of handling large numbers of pilgrims during Ramadan.
Farid Ahmed, secretary general of the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB), echoed these concerns, stating that while discussions with the Ministry of Religion are ongoing, the issue of the halted visas remains unresolved.
"We heard that a letter has been sent to the Saudi ambassador from the Ministry of Religion, and we are waiting to see what decision is made," he added.
However, he reassured that those who had deposited advance payments would receive refunds.
AKM Aftab Hossain Pramanik, secretary of the Religious Affairs Ministry, said that there is no formal agreement between the two countries for Umrah, unlike Hajj. However, efforts are still being made to contact the Saudi government to solve the issue.
He also assured that those who have deposited money with various agencies for Umrah tickets should receive refunds.
“If anyone lodges a complaint regarding this, arrangements will be made,” he added.
The issue has affected the daily transport of 1,000 to 1,200 Umrah passengers, as flights are unable to operate as planned.
Passengers who had made deposits for Umrah travel are urged to report any issues, as arrangements are being made for refunds.
The uncertainty surrounding the Umrah visa situation has left many Bangladeshi travelers in limbo, with hopes that the issue will be resolved soon.
However, there is still an opportunity for Umrah passengers to travel until April 15.