Banks to remain open Saturday to facilitate Hajj registration
Branches authorised to collect Hajj deposits must remain open on the day for as long as intending pilgrims arrive to make payments
Bangladesh Bank has instructed certain branches of scheduled banks to remain open on Saturday (18 October), to ensure smooth Hajj operations.
In a circular issued today (16 October), the central bank directed all managing directors and chief executives of banks to keep designated branches open for receiving Hajj registration deposits, in line with the Ministry of Religious Affairs' guidance for the 2026 Hajj.
The circular stated that branches authorised to collect Hajj deposits must remain open on the day, with adequate security, for as long as intending pilgrims arrive to make payments.
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Primary registration for next year's Hajj began on 27 July and was initially scheduled to close on 12 October, later extended to 16 October.
The holy Hajj is expected to be held on 26 May 2026, subject to the sighting of the moon.
According to the ministry, individuals aged 12 years or above who are physically and mentally fit will be eligible to perform Hajj. The government has also announced a slight reduction in costs for next year, with the minimum package set at Tk 467,167 following a cut in airfare.
