The first group of Maldivian pilgrims travelling for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage has arrived in Makkah, where they were welcomed by Maldivian officials and Saudi authorities.

A total of 238 pilgrims travelled on the first flight on Friday night.

Upon arrival at Jeddah airport, the pilgrims were received by Maldives Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Ahmed Sareer and senior officials of the Maldivian Hajj Mission. Representatives of the Makkah Route initiative also welcomed the group at the airport.

The pilgrims were later received at their hotel in Makkah by officials from Maldives Hajj Corporation, the Maldivian Hajj Mission and service providers assisting Maldivian pilgrims during the pilgrimage.

The Maldivian Hajj Mission said all pilgrims who travelled on the first flight were in good condition.

Additional flights carrying Maldivian pilgrims for Hajj are scheduled to depart on 17, 18 and 19 May.