Secure savings for Hajj pilgrims

Md. Altaf Hossain
Managing Director (Current charge)
Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC

“Our voice-based AI assistant guides pilgrims by monitoring savings progress in real-time, ensuring they stay on track for Hajj.”

Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC, the country’s pioneer Shariah-compliant institution, is dedicated to making the spiritual journey of Hajj organised for all. Under Managing Director Md. Altaf Hossain, the bank merges Islamic values with digital innovation. He aims to empower believers through structured savings and seamless government integration, ensuring every pilgrim travels with financial peace of mind.

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The Daily Star (TDS): What distinguishes your Hajj savings products in this competitive market?

Md. Altaf Hossain (MAH): Our cornerstone is the Mudaraba Hajj Savings Account, offering flexible installments over one to twenty-five years. What distinguishes us is our seamless integration with the government’s e-Hajj system for direct registration fee payments. We also offer a specialised Hajj Prepaid Card, allowing pilgrims to carry up to USD 1,200 in Saudi Riyals securely.

TDS:  How does your CellFin app assist pilgrims with their savings goals?

MAH: While we don’t have a specific “round-up” feature, our CellFin app provides “Standing Instructions” and “Auto Pay” for automated micro-savings. Customers can open and manage accounts entirely online. A unique feature is CellFin ECHO, our voice-based AI assistant, which helps users monitor savings progress in real-time. This combination of automation and accessibility ensures a disciplined path toward reaching pilgrimage funding targets.

TDS: What specific benefits does the Hajj Prepaid Card provide?

MAH: The card requires no separate bank account and has no issuance or closure fees. It is usable at POS terminals and ATMs across Saudi Arabia. For transparency, cardholders can link it to the Ministry of Religious Affairs’ “Labbayik” app to check balances. It is a cost-effective, secure tool designed specifically for the unique financial needs of a pilgrim during their stay.

TDS: How do you balance long-term savings for youth with immediate needs?

MAH: Our tenure flexibility—up to 25 years—is key. Younger customers can start with manageable monthly amounts over two decades. Conversely, those wanting to perform Hajj sooner can opt for shorter tenures with higher contributions. We provide a customized roadmap based on estimated Hajj costs to ensure every customer reaches their goal within their preferred timeframe.

Interview conducted by Tagabun Taharim Titun