The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has sought closer coordination with the Maldivian Consulate in Jeddah to strengthen assistance for Maldivians performing Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia, including support for pilgrims who may require help during their stay.
Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments Dr Mohamed Shaheem made the request during a meeting with newly appointed Maldivian Consul General in Jeddah, Badoora Saeed, at the ministry today. Badoora was appointed to the post in October.
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The discussions focused on improving coordination between the ministry and the consulate to ensure timely consular assistance for Maldivian pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj pilgrimage and Umrah.
Shaheem asked the consulate to continue working with the ministry to assist pilgrims who encounter difficulties or require support while in the Kingdom.
Maldives Consul General in Jeddah Pays Courtesy Call on Minister Dr. Shaheem https://t.co/ZnNBQvfqvN https://t.co/MtBhvicb8X— Ministry of Islamic Affairs & Endowments (@MVIaffairs) November 8, 2026
The meeting also addressed opportunities to expand cooperation with Saudi universities, particularly in Islamic education and professional development.
Shaheem requested the consulate’s assistance in establishing links with universities in Saudi Arabia to explore scholarship opportunities and short-term specialised training programmes for Maldivian imams and students.
The proposed programmes would focus on strengthening academic knowledge, Arabic language proficiency and professional skills in Islamic studies.
Assistant Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mohamed Shujau, also attended the meeting.
