Gov’t Revises Hajj Placement Policy to Prioritise First-Time Pilgrims

The Maldivian government has amended the Hajj placement policy to prioritise first-time pilgrims.

The revision aims to reduce long waiting times for those who have paid for a spot through the Maldives Hajj Corporation.

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Under the new policy, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs will oversee Hajj permits, quotas, and service provider compliance. The Maldives Hajj Corporation will manage services, with pilgrims required to sign an agreement before making payments. Flexible payment options, including lump sums or instalments, will be available.

The policy also prioritises individuals over 65 who have not performed Hajj, with special provisions for those aged 75 and above. The new regulations state that individuals who have already performed Hajj will only be eligible for another pilgrimage after five years.

Currently, 9,115 people are on the waiting list, with 8,623 being first-time pilgrims. The government is working to increase the official Hajj quota to address the issue of prolonged waiting times.