Ministry of Islamic Affairs has received proposals from 11 companies interested in facilitating Hajj pilgrimages this year.
The Islamic ministry accepted proposals from companies interested in facilitating the travel of Hajj pilgrims until March 14. The ministry is making efforts to complete the evaluation before the month of Ramadan.
The Maldives Hajj Corporation Limited will be tasked with facilitating the travel of half of the Maldivian Hajj pilgrims this year while the other half of the quota will be distributed to three other companies that will be chosen based on the points received during the evaluation. Each approved company will receive 90 pilgrims and will be required to facilitate their clients’ stay in Mina or their permit will be revoked.
The government of Saudi Arabia has allocated a quota of 1,000 slots for Maldivian Hajj pilgrims but the ministry has stated that discussions are being made to increase the quota. As such, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has personally requested the government of Saudi Arabia to increase the quota to 2,500 slots.
Furthermore, the ministry has signed two agreements to assist Maldivians during their Hajj pilgrimage. The agreements were signed with Saudi-based Al Adilla company and Shuyooful Bayt company on assisting pilgrims during their visits to Medina, Mecca, Mina, and Mount Arafat in Saudi Arabia. Discussions were also held to increase the services provided to Maldivians during their pilgrimage.