The first group of Maldivian pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj pilgrimage this year is scheduled to depart today.
A total of 235 pilgrims will travel on the first flight operated by Saudi Arabian Airlines.
The Maldives this year also received its official Hajj quota of 1,000 pilgrims this year. To facilitate travel arrangements, four flights have been scheduled, including two operated by Saudi Arabian Airlines and two by Maldivian.
Following today’s departure, additional groups of pilgrims are set to leave on 17, 18, and 19 May.
On 17 May, 252 pilgrims will depart on a Maldivian flight. A further 250 pilgrims are scheduled to travel on a Saudi Arabian Airlines flight on 18 May, while the final group of 252 pilgrims will depart on a Maldivian flight on 19 May.
As in previous years, the Maldives Hajj Corporation has overseen luggage collection and early check-in procedures ahead of the departure dates.
Special bus services have also been arranged for pilgrims travelling to the airport. According to the arrangements, buses will transport pilgrims to Velana International Airport five hours before their scheduled departure times.
Maldivian pilgrims will also continue to benefit from the “Makkah Route” initiative, which allows them to complete immigration procedures before departure and avoid lengthy waiting times upon arrival at Jeddah airport, enabling direct transfer to their hotels.
Authorities have also introduced several improvements to facilities and services provided for Maldivian pilgrims during Hajj.
The most physically challenging part of the pilgrimage takes place during the days spent in Mina. In response, the government relocated the area designated for Maldivian pilgrims in Mina last year and upgraded the service category.
This year, the number of restrooms allocated for Maldivian pilgrims has also been increased. A newly constructed restroom building has brought the total number of toilets available to more than 60, with separate facilities designated for men and women.
Catering arrangements in Mina have also been expanded, with additional kitchen facilities and resources introduced to improve meal services compared to previous years.
The Maldivian tent area in Mina is located along one of the main roads, allowing easier transportation access and a more convenient route for pilgrims performing the symbolic stoning ritual at Jamarat.
Additional arrangements have also been made for the stay in Arafat. In response to requests made by Maldivian pilgrims in previous years, the designated tent area in Arafat has been fenced to ensure it remains a private area exclusively for Maldivian pilgrims.
Beyond the arrangements for the Hajj rituals, authorities have confirmed that all hotel accommodation, catering services, and medical care facilities required during the pilgrims’ stay in Saudi Arabia have been finalised.