First Group of Maldivian Pilgrims Depart for Hajj

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced that the first batch of pilgrims from the Maldives embarked on their journey to Saudi Arabia to undertake the sacred Hajj pilgrimage on last afternoon.

A total of 298 pilgrims set off on Friday, with the Maldives Hajj Corporation overseeing the arrangements for their journey. Excluding aides, the total number of pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage this year stands at 980.

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A special ceremony was held at the airport yesterday to bid farewell to the first group of pilgrims. Among the dignitaries present were Vice President Faisal Naseem, Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saidd, and the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to the Maldives.

Minister Shaheem expressed appreciation for the arrangements made for the departure of pilgrims, extending gratitude to all involved in the process.

This year’s cohort of 980 pilgrims includes 50 individuals who received state-sponsored Hajj trips as part of an electoral pledge by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to provide Hajj opportunities for 1,000 low-income individuals during his tenure.

As in previous years, the Islamic Ministry has facilitated transportation for pilgrims from the Male’ area to the airport.

Saudi Arabia approved a quota of 1,000 pilgrims from the Maldives for the Hajj pilgrimage this year. The decision to allocate all quotas to the Maldives Hajj Corporation was made by the government in light of concerns regarding high prices and potential fraud by private companies claiming to offer Hajj escort services.