Ministry of Islamic Affairs Conducts Lottery for Free Hajj Trips
Photo: The President’s Office
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs conducted a lottery to select the first 50 underprivileged Maldivians for sponsored Hajj journeys this year, advancing President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to facilitate 1000 such trips in the next five years.
The selection process unfolded during a ceremony hosted by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs yesterday where lots were drawn to determine the fortunate recipients of this generous opportunity.
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Under the scheme, individuals are chosen from a register of underprivileged persons through a random selection process. The Ministry has established clear guidelines and criteria for the issuance of these sponsored Hajj trips, ensuring transparency and fairness in the selection process.
In the initial phase, the government has prioritized individuals aged fifty to sixty for the first three years, followed by those aged forty-five to sixty-nine in the subsequent two years. This strategic approach aims to extend the opportunity to a diverse range of deserving candidates over the designated period.
Among the pool of potential candidates, 892 individuals aged fifty to sixty-nine were identified from the register of the poor and needy, with 667 meeting the specified requirements. The lottery conducted today determined the final selection from this eligible group, with an additional provision to accommodate ten alternates in case any of the original fifty are unable to undertake the pilgrimage.
The government has pledged full support for the chosen individuals, covering not only the expenses associated with the Hajj journey but also arrangements for accommodation and travel logistics in Male’ City.
Funding for these sponsored trips will be facilitated through the Zakat Fund, with plans underway to secure additional resources from the state budget in the coming years. Discussions have also been initiated to explore potential partnerships with external entities to further support this noble initiative.
