A direct flight from Addu to Makkah, Saudi Arabia for Umrah pilgrims has been planned for the first time. 

To date, all Umrah pilgrims from across the country are required to travel to the capital and take flights from the Velana International Airport. The introduction of a direct flight from Addu Gan International Airport to Makkah, Saudi Arabia is a major step forward. 

Umrah travel agent The Traveller announced in a social media post that a flight is to be held from Addu to Jeddah in collaboration with national carrier Maldivian. 

This would significantly reduce travel duration and costs, the agency said. 

Bookings are set to be opened soon for the flight. 

A senior official of Island Aviation, which operates Maldivian, confirmed that the airline has scheduled a July Jeddah flight on its widebody A330 following a request from The Traveller. 

The A330 has the capacity to carry 264 passengers. 

"The general baggage allowance of 46kg will also be provided. This is a charter flight being made on request from The Traveller," the Island Aviation official stated.