The Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has announced that action will be taken against companies found violating the regulations for transporting individuals to perform Umrah.

In a social media statement, the Minister emphasised the importance of adhering to the newly established rules for companies facilitating Umrah travel. He confirmed that companies violating the gazetted regulations or their agreements with the ministry would face strict penalties. Companies found in breach of Rule 19 under these regulations may have their permissions revoked, and further actions could be taken, including fines and other sanctions.

The rules stipulate financial penalties for violations. Companies found breaching agreements may face fines ranging from MVR 1,000 to MVR 100,000 for minor offences depending on the severity. For more serious violations, such as operating without permission, fines can escalate to between MVR 100,000 and MVR 500,000. In cases deemed criminal, the ministry will refer matters to the Maldives Police Service for investigation, while civil disputes will be forwarded to the Attorney General’s Office.

The new measures come in response to past incidents of malpractice, including overcharging pilgrims and creating difficulties in their return journeys. These issues have prompted the ministry to strengthen oversight and accountability in the Umrah travel sector.

To date, more than 50 companies have been authorised to facilitate travel for Umrah pilgrims, with demand for such services continuing to rise. Thousands of Maldivians, particularly during school holidays and Ramadan, undertake the pilgrimage each year. This December alone, over 5,000 pilgrims are expected to travel from the Maldives for Umrah.