Last group of 40 stranded Umrah pilgrims returns from Saudi Arabia

TBS Report

25 October, 2026, 08:15 pm

Last modified: 25 October, 2026, 08:24 pm

The final group of 40 Bangladeshi Umrah pilgrims stranded in Saudi Arabia following an attack at Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport on 10 October returned home safely today (25 October), the Ministry of Religious Affairs said.

The pilgrims arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka from Jeddah around noon.

Officials from the ministry, including Director (Hajj) Md Lokman Hossain and Public Relations Officer Md Farhad Ahmed, welcomed them on the instructions of Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad.

According to a ministry press release, the ministry coordinated efforts to ensure the pilgrims' safe return. The minister maintained regular contact with the group while they were in Saudi Arabia and instructed officials to provide necessary assistance.

The minister also personally arranged meals and clothing for the pilgrims during their two-day stay in Saudi Arabia. After their return, his personal fund covered refreshments and transport to help them reach their destination in Sirajganj.

Abdullah-Al-Mamun, the group's muallim (pilgrimage guide), said the minister had remained in contact with the pilgrims throughout their stay and regularly checked on their welfare.

He added that meals, clothing and essential medicines were distributed to pilgrims who faced difficulties after losing access to their luggage. Transport was also arranged to ensure their safe journey to Sirajganj after returning to Bangladesh.

The returning pilgrims expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman for his instructions and assistance. They also thanked the Bangladesh Embassy in Riyadh, the Hajj missions in Mecca and Medina, the Saudi government and Saudi Airlines for their support.

Seven Bangladeshi Umrah pilgrims injured in the attack remain under treatment at a hospital in Riyadh, the ministry said.