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First group of pilgrims to depart for Saudi Arabia tomorrow

Ministry has stated that the first group of pilgrims departing for Hajj this year will leave for Saudi Arabia tomorrow. While three dates have been allocated for their departure, 298 people, including 272 pilgrims and 26 aids will depart tomorrow.

Aishath Shuba Solih
30 May 2024, MVT 21:11
Pilgrims who departed for Hajj from Maldives last year at the Velana International Airport. -- Photo: President's Office
Aishath Shuba Solih
30 May 2024, MVT 21:11

Ministry of Islamic Affairs has stated today that the first group of 298 people departing from Maldives for Hajj pilgrimage will depart for Saudi Arabia tomorrow.

While the Pilgrims will commence their departures tomorrow, this group comprises 980 individuals. This count excludes those traveling as aides accompanying them, who are being sent to Hajj under the authority of Maldives Hajj Corporation Limited.

The Islamic Ministry said that three days have been designated for the departure of pilgrims.

Flights are scheduled for May 31, June 3 and June 7, according to the Ministry. While all the pilgrims are set to travel via the Saudi Arabia's national airline, Saudia, departure is scheduled for 15:25 hrs in the afternoon on the allocated days.

- 298 people are set to depart tomorrow which includes 272 Pilgrims and 26 aids

- 353 people are set to depart on June 3 which includes 330 Pilgrims and 23 aids

- 339 people are set to depart on June 7 which includes 316 Pilgrims and 23 aids

Saudi Arabia had permitted a Hajj quota of 1,000 pilgrims from Maldives this year.

Fifty out of the 1000 underprivileged individuals, sponsored by the State as pledged by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu during his presidential campaign, will also embark on the Hajj pilgrimage this year.

Draws were held to select 50 out of 60 individuals who are departing for Hajj under the government's expense, out of which ten people had voluntarily relinquished their slots. The Ministry announced that these 10 vacated slots would be allocated to underprivileged individuals on the reserve list in sequential order.

The Ministry further disclosed that all accommodation and food expenses for the pilgrims selected from local islands to embark on Hajj will be covered by the State during their stay in Male' City.

To facilitate pilgrims departing for Hajj, the Ministry has introduced additional travel arrangements to Velana International Airport (VIA) from Male', Vilimale', and Hulhumale'. Furthermore, the Ministry has coordinated with state institutes to arrange for the transportation of pilgrims' luggage to VIA.

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