Nusuk card launched to ease hajj journey for pilgrims

Bangladesh has formally expanded the Nusuk Card system for Hajj pilgrims, introducing for the first time a pre-arrival distribution programme aimed at streamlining travel management and improving services for pilgrims.

The initiative was inaugurated on Monday afternoon at a city hotel in Purana Paltan, Dhaka, marking a new phase in Hajj administration. The programme was attended by State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M Rashiduzzaman Millat and Prime Minister’s Adviser Dr Mahdi Amin.

Under the new arrangement, Nusuk Cards will be distributed through 14 agencies covering 2,360 Hajj pilgrims before departure from Bangladesh. The overall management of the pre-arrival card system will be handled by Taiba Alliance and Saudi-based Rawaf Mina agency.

Officials said the remaining 78,500 pilgrims will receive their Nusuk Cards after arriving in Saudi Arabia through their respective agencies.

At the inauguration, the state minister said the introduction of the Nusuk Card in Bangladesh represents a significant step in improving Hajj management and ensuring better services for pilgrims. He also reiterated that strict action would be taken against agencies failing to properly deliver their responsibilities.

He further noted that the government is working to ensure a smoother and more affordable Hajj experience by reducing travel-related costs.

Dr Mahdi Amin said the government aims to strengthen post-Hajj services as well, ensuring that returning pilgrims are satisfied and that agencies fully comply with their responsibilities in serving pilgrims effectively.

Hajj Monitoring Committee member Mohammad Shamim Kaiser Lincoln said the card serves as a complete identity system for pilgrims, helping authorities provide assistance in case of emergencies or loss of direction. He urged pilgrims to safeguard the card carefully.

Officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Hajj agencies, and prospective pilgrims attended the event.