The Government is working to arrange travel for Maldivians who have been unable to depart for Umrah due to various disruptions, Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said.

In a message sent to media outlets, the minister said some pilgrims had been unable to travel after arrangements made through different companies fell through, while others were affected when transit flights through certain countries were cancelled.

He said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had instructed authorities to find a solution to ensure the affected pilgrims could still undertake the pilgrimage.

Efforts are currently underway through coordination between the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, the Maldives Hajj Corporation and Maldivian, with work already in progress to arrange suitable travel options.

The Minister stated that around 150 people have so far been identified as seeking to travel. If a charter flight can be arranged, additional seats may also be made available for others wishing to perform Umrah, depending on capacity.

He added that authorities are working to resolve logistical challenges given the limited time available, while noting that pilgrims will bear the travel costs in accordance with the usual arrangements for Umrah trips.