Special Scheme Allows Expats to Return for BDT 20,000

In a groundbreaking initiative, the interim government has announced a highly subsidised scheme enabling Bangladeshi expatriate workers in Saudi Arabia to return home with a one-way airfare of just BDT 20,500. The programme aims to make family reunions more accessible and affordable for thousands of migrant workers. The announcement was made today at the Prime Adviser’s Press Wing.

Sheikh Bashiruddin, Adviser to the Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, stated that the initiative targets the sale of 80,000 tickets across Saudi Arabia–Bangladesh routes. “This scheme not only benefits expatriate workers but also presents a significant revenue opportunity for the state-owned carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines,” he said.

Traditionally, flights during the Hajj season operate with high inbound passenger numbers, leaving many return flights underutilised. Sheikh Bashiruddin explained that the new policy seeks to optimise these otherwise empty seats, potentially generating over BDT 10 billion in additional revenue—a historic first for the airline.

The special fare structure under this initiative is as follows:

The scheme will be valid for travel from Madinah and Jeddah to Dhaka between 18 April and 25 May 2026, while tickets for travel from Bangladesh to Saudi Arabia will be available from 30 May to 30 June 2026.

Prime Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus described the programme as a major milestone in implementing expatriate-friendly policies. He expressed gratitude to Sheikh Bashiruddin for the timely execution of the plan and emphasised the broader economic benefits.

“Practical decisions like this will ease the lives of our expatriate citizens and contribute positively to the national economy,” Professor Yunus said.

However, recalling past experiences, the Prime Adviser issued a note of caution. He highlighted that while many initiatives have been launched for the benefit of expatriates, some faltered due to inadequate monitoring. “We must ensure that this programme is fully effective and sustainable,” he added.