The first group of Maldivian Hajj pilgrims has arrived home after completing this year’s pilgrimage, marking the beginning of their return from Saudi Arabia.

More than 230 pilgrims returned in this first group on a Saudi Airlines flight from Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina, representing the first direct return from Medina for Maldivian pilgrims.

This year, 1,000 pilgrims travelled with the Hajj Corporation, marking the first time that all listed pilgrims were able to perform the pilgrimage within the same year. This year saw a smoother experience for pilgrims under the Makkah Route Initiative, which significantly streamlined the immigration process.

As pilgrims begin to return, four different flights have been scheduled to carry them over the next four days. The second and third groups of pilgrims, scheduled to return on Saturday, will travel via Maldivian Airlines. The fourth group is set to return on a Saudi Airlines flight.

In addition, flu clinics have been set up at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) and Hulhumalé Hospital to provide medical care for returning pilgrims. IGMH has advised all returning pilgrims to visit the flu clinic promptly if they experience any symptoms. Pilgrims visiting the flu clinic are instructed to first report to the ER triage counter, where they will be directed to either the flu clinic or the emergency room, depending on their condition.

The flu clinic at IGMH will operate daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and is located in Patient Care Room Number Ten. The flu clinic at Hulhumalé Hospital will operate daily from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Pilgrims visiting the clinic are advised to wear masks for safety.

Pilgrims are advised to exercise caution and seek medical attention promptly if any symptoms emerge, to help prevent the spread of illness.