Dhaka, Jan. 12 -- The first flights carrying Bangladeshi pilgrims to Saudi Arabia for Hajj will depart on Apr 18.

On the opening day, eight flights are scheduled to transport 3,255 pilgrims from Bangladesh, according to officials.

Under new instructions from Saudi authorities, pilgrims registered under the same Hajj agency will be required to travel on the same flight this year.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs said a directive regarding the matter had been sent on Sunday to Hajj agency owners and the three airlines authorised to carry Bangladeshi pilgrims.

According to the ministry, the arrangements are in line with the Hajj Package and Guidelines 2026. At least 20 percent of each agency's pilgrims must travel during the middle phas...