The first group of pilgrims from the Maldives has departed to Saudi Arabia to perform this year's Hajj pilgrimage.
The group, consisting of 235 pilgrims, departed from Velana International Airport (VIA) via a Saudi Airlines flight at 15:14 hrs. The flight is expected to land at Jeddah Airport at 20:49 local time.
As in previous years, the government has implemented convenient arrangements for the pilgrims to reach the airport. Special bus services were available from both Male’ and Hulhumale’, and pilgrims also had easy access to the airport via the Hulhule’ Ferry Terminal.
The government has arranged dedicated bus services along three routes from Male’ and two routes from Hulhumale’. Bus services commenced at 10:30 hrs, with police and scouts stationed at the designated bus stops to assist pilgrims.
The next groups of pilgrims are scheduled to leave on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
Maldivian pilgrims completed all Saudi immigration procedures prior to their departure from the Maldives. This service was made available to Maldivian pilgrims under the special directive of King Salman bin Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia.