Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC has inaugurated a dedicated Hajj service booth at the Hajj Camp in Ashkona, Dhaka, with the objective of facilitating banking services, providing essential information, and supplying necessary items to departing pilgrims.
The booth was officially inaugurated on 16 April 2026 by Md. Altaf Hossain, Managing Director (Current Charge) of the bank, who attended the ceremony as the chief guest. Senior officials of the institution were also present on the occasion, including A.K.M. Mahbub Morshed, Head of Dhaka North Zone, and Md. Maznuzzaman, Executive Vice President, along with other executives and officials. The information was provided in a press release issued by the bank.
According to the bank, the establishment of the booth at the Ashkona Hajj Camp is an annual initiative designed to support Hajj pilgrims during the pre-departure phase. The arrangement is intended to streamline access to financial services and assist pilgrims in completing necessary formalities in a single location.
The banking services available at the booth include the exchange of foreign currency, specifically Saudi Riyal and United States Dollar, in return for Bangladeshi Taka. The booth also facilitates the issuance of Hajj Cards, as well as the endorsement of Debit Cards and Khidmah (Credit) Cards. In addition, ATM-related support services are provided to ensure that pilgrims can access their funds while travelling.
These financial instruments enable pilgrims to withdraw Saudi Riyals from any ATM booth carrying the Visa logo within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, thereby ensuring continuity of access to funds during the pilgrimage period.
Alongside banking facilities, the booth also provides a range of practical items intended to assist pilgrims during their journey. These include umbrellas, handbags, shoe bags, and specially designed bags used for collecting stones required for the ritual at Mina. In addition, informational leaflets are distributed, containing guidance on Hajj procedures, rules, and essential instructions aimed at increasing awareness among pilgrims regarding the correct performance of religious rites.
The services provided at the booth may be summarised as follows:
| Category | Services and Facilities |
|---|---|
| Foreign Currency Exchange | Saudi Riyal and US Dollar in exchange for Bangladeshi Taka |
| Card Services | Issuance of Hajj Cards; endorsement of Debit and Khidmah (Credit) Cards |
| ATM Access Support | Withdrawal facilities through Visa-enabled ATM networks in Saudi Arabia |
| Pilgrim Assistance Items | Umbrellas, handbags, shoe bags, and stone-collection bags |
| Information and Guidance | Leaflets outlining Hajj rules, procedures, and travel guidance |
The initiative reflects the bank’s continued operational practice of providing coordinated support services to Hajj pilgrims at the Ashkona Hajj Camp, ensuring that financial transactions and essential preparations are handled efficiently prior to departure.