Maldives Hajj Corporation has said this year’s Hajj pilgrims are being selected from its queue system, with priority given to first-time pilgrims.

Speaking on Bodu Khabaru programme on MMTV, Deputy Managing Director Uz Ali Shareef said selections are made based on the order of the queue, in line with the national Hajj quota.

He said individuals taken outside the queue are limited to those assisting pilgrims and those involved in administrative duties.

“President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has requested that priority be given to first-time pilgrims. Priority is also given to elderly individuals. The queue is structured in line with this policy,” Shareef said.

Uz Shareef said the queue system cannot be altered, noting it is audited annually and operates through an automated process.

“This is a very robust system. No individual can interfere with it. The queue is audited, and all processes, including selection and reallocation of slots when someone withdraws, are done automatically,” he said.

He added that a portion of the quota is reserved for first-time pilgrims and elderly individuals.

Additional support is also provided for older pilgrims. Those aged 75 and above are allowed to travel with a companion, usually a family member. The same provision is extended to individuals with serious health conditions.

Shareef said that despite invitations being issued based on the queue, around 200 people were unable to proceed with Hajj this year, creating challenges in completing travel arrangements within the limited timeframe.