Managing Director of the Maldives Hajj Corporation, Mohamed Shakeel, has stated that the corporation’s primary objective is to continuously strengthen the quality of services provided to pilgrims, rather than increasing the number of people taken for Hajj or Umrah.

Shakeel made the remarks while speaking on MMTV’s Bodu Khabaru programme on Sunday.

He said the corporation prioritises maintaining service standards and improving the overall pilgrimage experience, noting that ongoing efforts are being made each year to enhance facilities and support provided to pilgrims.

Shakeel added that, as in previous years, flights for pilgrims are being chartered by Maldivian Airlines to facilitate travel to Makkah. He said no complaints have been received regarding services, adding that Hajj Corporation staff and assistants also extend support to other Maldivian pilgrim groups.

Highlighting recent improvements, Shakeel said several major changes have been introduced since he assumed office. Among the most significant is the replacement of the bus service between Makkah and Medina with the high-speed train. He noted that the previous bus journey took between six and eight hours, and the shift to rail transport has brought considerable relief and convenience to pilgrims.

As a result, the Maldives Hajj Corporation has become an important standard-setting body for pilgrimage services, he said, reiterating the corporation’s commitment to maintaining high service standards for both Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.

Shakeel also said a large number of Maldivian pilgrims are currently in Makkah, including 630 individuals who travelled for Umrah under the supervision of the Hajj Corporation. He added that all participants have now completed their Umrah pilgrimage and are scheduled to return to the Maldives on the 10th and 11th of this month.