Dhaka, May 3 -- The government has urged the Bangladeshis staying in Saudi Arabia not to perform hajj without a hajj permit.

The religious affairs ministry made the request in a statement on Friday for smooth and better hajj management and welfare of pilgrims.

The ministry also asked Bangladeshis not to stay in Mecca or holy places of Saudi Arabia on visit visas during the current hajj season.

It also said Bangladeshis have also been requested to refrain from sponsoring, transporting and assisting in entering reserved hajj areas and arranging accommodation for them in hotels or houses for visit visa holders who violate hajj regulations.

"It's necessary to refrain from such acts as they have a negative impact on the existing relations ...