Gov’t Opens Investigation Into Sudden Cancellation of Umrah Trip Affecting Over 100 Pilgrims
Investigation launched into sudden cancellation of umrah trip | Photo: Al Abrar Pvt Ltd Maldives via Facebook
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has launched an investigation into the sudden cancellation of an Umrah trip organised by Al Abrar Pvt Ltd, which left more than 100 pilgrims stranded.
According to a source, 110 people were scheduled to depart for Umrah in the evening. Passengers were instructed to bring their luggage to the airport between 10 am and 11 am but were later asked to bring their luggage again closer to the departure time. The group was subsequently called to a meeting at 2 pm, where they were informed that the trip had been cancelled.
Organisers reportedly cited the ongoing conflict in the Middle East as the reason for the cancellation. One passenger expressed concern that many pilgrims feared losing their opportunity to perform Umrah, noting that assurances had been given previously that travel arrangements were unaffected.
The source added that although passengers had paid approximately MVR 45,000 each, some had still not received their visas as of Tuesday evening.
The issue has been reported to the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed confirmed that the matter has come to the ministry’s attention and stated that an investigation is underway. He added that appropriate action would be taken if any malpractice was identified.
Pilgrims were scheduled to travel over three consecutive days, including Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, meaning further departures may also be affected by the cancellation.
The situation comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following recent military exchanges, including retaliatory attacks targeting United States assets in several Gulf countries. The final 15 days of Ramadan are typically a peak period for Maldivians travelling for Umrah, with many booking trips through private operators.
There have been previous cases involving irregularities in Umrah travel arrangements, and the Ministry has taken action in the past against operators accused of exploiting pilgrims.
