Draw taken to select 50 people to perform Hajj next year at state expense

The government has held a draw to select 50 people who will perform next year’s Hajj pilgrimage at state expense.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has pledged to send 1,000 people on the pilgrimage free of charge over the next five years.

The initiative, aimed at supporting those with limited financial means, began last year, with 50 people sent to perform Hajj under the scheme.

This year’s draw took place at a special ceremony held at the Islamic Centre.

According to the Islamic Ministry, the draw was conducted among 2,853 people in the Zakat al-Mal (zakat on property) recipient list for this year who were between 50 and 69 years.

A total of 433 people were of the eligibility criteria. Of these, the ministry said 63 people who had previously performed Hajj and 103 who were deemed medically unfit were excluded, leaving 267 eligible participants for the draw.

A reserve list of 25 additional people was also selected, who will be offered the opportunity if any of the chosen pilgrims are unable to travel.

The ministry said island councils had verified the eligibility of those on the list, and that the government would also cover the cost of transportation for all pilgrims.

The ministry has asked complaints to be submitted before 12 pm on Sunday.