Performing Hajj is a lifelong spiritual aspiration for millions, yet navigating the financial and logistical requirements often demands careful foresight and expert support. In this interview with The Daily Star, Ahsan Zaman Chowdhury, Managing Director & CEO, Trust Bank PLC discusses how it is simplifying this sacred journey through its Shariah-compliant TIB Barakat Hajj Deposit Scheme and specialised on-ground services.

The Daily Star(TDS): Can you provide an overview of your bank’s current Hajj-specific financial products? What makes your “Hajj Savings Account” or “Hajj Deposit Scheme” unique in this competitive market?

Ahsan Zaman Chowdhury (AZC) Trust Bank PLC offers the TIB Barakat Hajj Deposit Scheme, a Shariah-compliant savings product based on the Mudarabah (profit-sharing) principle. The scheme provides flexibility with tenures ranging from 2 to 10 years. Customers can withdraw their principal along with earned profit before maturity if they secure a Hajj slot early, upon providing valid documentation.

TDS: How does your Shariah Board oversee the management of Hajj funds to ensure they are invested only in Halal avenues?

AZC: The bank’s Shariah Supervisory Board ensures strict adherence to Islamic principles. Investments undergo both qualitative and quantitative screening to exclude shariah prohibited sectors such as alcohol, gambling, and interest-based finance.All investment transactions are conducted using Shariah-compliant contracts like Murabahah, Musharakah and Ijarah.

TDS: Does your bank offer value-added services such as specialised Hajj debit cards (with zero-forex markups), travel Takaful (Islamic insurance), or currency exchange discounts for pilgrims?

AZC: Trust Bank provides a Hajj Prepaid Card, ensuring secure and convenient financial transactions during pilgrimage. The card is issued free of charge and can be even obtained from Hajj Camp booth with basic documentation such as a passport and NID.

TDS: How is your bank balancing its offerings between long-term savings for the youth and short-term financing for those who want to perform Hajj sooner but haven’t started saving yet?

AZC: Trust Bank PLC offers flexible Hajj Deposit Schemes tailored for both long-term planners and immediate pilgrims. With options ranging from monthly instalments for younger clients to a 2-year maturity plan, supplemented by currency services and registration assistance.

Interview conducted by Adrin Sarwar.