Hajj Corporation Begins Biometric Collection Under Makkah Route Initiative

The Hajj Corporation has commenced the collection of biometric data for Maldivian pilgrims travelling for Hajj under the Makkah Route Initiative.

The biometric collection process is designed to support Saudi immigration requirements and integration with the Nusuk platform, reducing the need for lengthy procedures upon arrival and enabling pilgrims to focus on their religious journey.

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The exercise initially began for residents of Malé, with dedicated sessions to be arranged for pilgrims from the atolls closer to their respective departure dates. The process involves capturing fingerprints and facial features, which are digitally recorded by Hajj Corporation staff using smartphones and uploaded directly to the Saudi immigration system. This allows pilgrims to complete immigration clearance prior to departure.

The Makkah Route Initiative, launched by Saudi Arabia in 2019 and introduced in the Maldives last year, aims to modernise Hajj travel logistics by completing visa, customs and immigration procedures in the pilgrim’s country of origin.

Hajj Corporation Managing Director Mohamed Shakeel described the initiative as a significant improvement to services provided to Maldivian pilgrims, highlighting the convenience experienced following its implementation.

Under the initiative, pilgrims departing from the Maldives will have already completed all required immigration formalities. Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, they are able to bypass standard airport procedures, with processing times reduced to a matter of minutes after disembarkation.