The Maldives has launched its first-ever direct Umrah flights from Addu Gan International Airport to Saudi Arabia.
The government has been working to make Umrah and Hajj travel easier for Maldivians by introducing a range of new services and arrangements. As part of these efforts, several new initiatives have already been introduced.
This historic flight was operated by Maldivian using its Airbus A330 wide-body aircraft, providing a significant convenience for residents of Addu City and the southern atolls. The service was organised jointly by the travel agency The Traveller, which provides Umrah travel services, and the national airline, Maldivian.
A total of 260 pilgrims, including children, travelled on the inaugural flight. Maldivian also presented the pilgrims with special gifts. Speaking to PSM News, the airline described the occasion as a landmark achievement, noting that direct Umrah flights from the southern atolls would greatly improve accessibility for residents of the region. The airline added that this marks the beginning of the service and that similar flights are expected to continue in the future.
Maldivian first launched direct Umrah flights from the Maldives on 22 July last year. More than 750 pilgrims travelled on the inaugural service. The airline operates these Umrah flights using its Airbus A330 wide-body aircraft. In addition to Umrah services, Maldivian also operated flights carrying Maldivian Hajj pilgrims to Saudi Arabia during last year's Hajj season.
In recent years, the number of Maldivians performing Umrah has increased significantly. More young people, as well as entire families travelling with young children, are now undertaking the pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, the national airline has also established a dedicated Southern Connectivity Network to improve domestic air travel across the four southern atolls. Under this network, scheduled flights now operate between Addu, Fuvahmulah and the three regions of Huvadhoo Atoll, strengthening regional connectivity.