The treatment by the Biman employees at ZIA was nice. They greeted all the Hajjis, carried luggage, supplied a Hajj instruction booklet and were always smiling. Didn't expect any tips. This was simply remarkable! A single dose of antibiotic capsule was given to all by the Saudi government at Jeddah Airport. This was to protect the pilgrims from infection. As a non-Arab, I found many Bangladeshis who work there as cleaners, shopkeepers and drivers to communicate with. They were everywhere in Mecca, Mina and Medina. The package programme covered visits to almost all historical places. Individual initiative was not necessary.

But the story doesn't end there. The agency chose an airlines for me. Their service was horrible! They didn't maintain any seat number. Passengers were confused. Food was served hurriedly and all lights, including the reading lights, were put off! Some Bangladeshi young people begged at Medina after each prayer. This was painful for me.