Hajj pilgrims urged to avoid carrying prohibited items on flights

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has requested all Hajj pilgrims to strictly refrain from carrying prohibited goods -- whether for personal use or at the instigation of Hajj agencies or third parties -- during their journey to Saudi Arabia.

Under Saudi Arabian law, several items such as narcotics, tobacco leaves, jarda, gul, betel leaves, dried fish, cooked food, and other perishable goods are strictly forbidden in the pilgrims' luggage.

These restrictions are explicitly outlined in the Hajj Package and Guidelines 2026 issued by the ministry.

Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain Kaikobad noted that despite repeated warnings in previous years, banned items have continued to be discovered in the luggage of Bangladeshi pilgrims at Saudi airports.

"Such incidents tarnish the image of our nation on the global stage," he said, urging pilgrims to exercise extreme caution and personal responsibility.

Religious Affairs Secretary Munshi Alauddin Al-Azad emphasised the legal consequences of non-compliance.

"If prohibited items are found, the individual faces severe penal action under the prevailing laws of Saudi Arabia. Such actions put the individual's Hajj pilgrimage at significant risk and may even prevent them from performing their religious duties entirely," he said.

The ministry reiterates that no prohibited products should be carried under any circumstances to ensure a smooth and respectful pilgrimage for all.

This year, some 78,500 pilgrims from Bangladesh will perform Hajj, with flights set to begin on 18 April.