All Maldivian pilgrims performing this year’s Hajj have now arrived in Arafat and are in good health, according to Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed.

Pilgrims began their journey to Arafat last night.

Earlier today, Shaheem said one pilgrim receiving treatment at a hospital in Mina had been unable to travel with the rest of the group. However, the minister later confirmed that the pilgrim had also been transported to Arafat with assistance from the Maldives Hajj Corporation.

“All the pilgrims are now in Arafat. The pilgrim who was admitted to Mina Hospital last night is also in good condition. Hajj Corporation has taken him to Arafat today,” Shaheem said.

Staying in Arafat is regarded as the most important ritual of the Hajj pilgrimage, and pilgrims who fail to be present there are unable to complete Hajj.

Pilgrims are expected to depart for Muzdalifah later tonight.

A total of 1,019 pilgrims from Maldives are participating in this year’s Hajj.

The Hajj Corporation previously said pilgrims would remain in Saudi Arabia for 22 days, with return flights to the Maldives scheduled to begin from the end of next month.