Hajj goers from Maldives have started returning after completing their pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia. A total of 1,150 pilgrims traveled to Mecca to perform the fifth pillar of Islam.
Maldivians who went to Mecca, Saudi Arabia - the epicentre of the Islam - have started returning back to the country today after completing the holy pilgrimage of Hajj.
The first plane carrying Hajj goers landed at Velana International Airport (VIA) in Hulhulé, Malé City landed this afternoon at 01:55 with 296 pilgrims.
The Maldivian Hajj mission said that a total of four flights will be operated for all the pilgrims to reach back to Maldives, with the next flight scheduled for next Friday. The other two flights arrive in Maldives on first and fourth July.
A total of 1,150 Maldivians flew to Mecca to perform Hajj this year. As their return would cause extra traffic within the airport, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) which operates VIA, has urged passengers traveling via the airport to check in at least three hours prior to their departure time.
Additionally, HPA yesterday issued an advisory for returning pilgrims to take precautionary measures to prevent catching or spreading any flu or viruses.
Following the completion of Hajj, Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed said that the Maldivian hajj mission was this year was very successful, although there are aspects which can be improved for next year.
Highlighting that this is the second time such a large number of pilgrims attended Hajj from the Maldives, Minister Shaheem said that in a big event taking place among millions of people, shortcomings are beyond control despite best efforts.
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