Talk of pilgrims' stay in Mecca shortened to 15 days is false: Minister Shaheem

Islamic Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has dismissed rumors circulating on social media that claim the government has reduced the duration of Maldivian pilgrims’ stay in Mecca to 15 days and said that these claims are entirely false.

Minister Shaheem made the statement following President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s meeting with Maldivian pilgrims in Mecca this Hajj season.

Addressing the media, the Minister stated that Maldives Hajj Corporation had informed him there were no arrangements for any group of pilgrims to stay only 15 days in Saudi Arabia.

He said that pilgrims who traveled on the first flight would stay for 19 days, those on the second and third flights for 19 and 20 days respectively, and the fourth flight passengers for 18 days.

“In the past, pilgrims stayed in Mecca for about 30 days. But in recent years, the stay has typically ranged between 22 to 25 days because pilgrims travel to Medina after Hajj and then return to Mecca,” he said.

This year, however, pilgrims will not return to Mecca after visiting Medina post-Hajj. Minister Shaheem said this decision was made in line with Saudi Arabia's health, safety, and logistical guidelines for pilgrims.

“Therefore, I urge everyone not to spread misinformation about such sensitive national matters. If there are concerns, we are open to discussion and will find a solution,” he added.

There has been public concern that pilgrims having paid for a month-long pilgrimage, are receiving a shorter stay without a refund. Addressing this issue, Maldives Hajj Corporation Managing Director Mohamed Shakeel earlier stated that the Hajj fee is charged for the services and worship involved and not for the length of the stay.

“All services offered remain unchanged. It’s just that the journey takes two to three days less now,” Shakeel told Mihaaru News earlier.

This year Maldives was included in the Mecca Route Initiative for the first time.

Under this initiative, pilgrims completed immigration procedures at Velana International Airport before departure, allowing them to bypass immigration queues upon arrival in Jeddah. Their luggage was also delivered directly to their hotels, streamlining the entire travel experience.

In addition to enhanced travel logistics, the government ensured that Maldivian pilgrims received upgraded accommodation and facilities in Mina.

Saudi Arabia granted a quota of 1,000 pilgrims to the Maldives for this year’s Hajj.