The Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, has announced that plans are being considered to introduce regulations prioritising first-time Hajj pilgrims.

The proposal aims to ensure that those who have not yet performed the pilgrimage are given the opportunity before repeat pilgrims.

In a social media post, Minister Shaheem highlighted that some countries have already implemented similar policies. For example, certain nations require a minimum five-year interval before allowing individuals to perform a second Hajj. These measures, he noted, are designed to address quota limitations and facilitate access for new pilgrims.

Minister Shaheem suggested that adopting such regulations in the Maldives could help prospective pilgrims by promoting fairness and inclusivity in how Hajj opportunities are allocated. He stressed the importance of establishing clear guidelines to address the issue.

The Minister emphasised the importance of seeking public input on the proposal, highlighting the need for a collective decision. He noted that the initiative aims to provide opportunities for those who have not yet undertaken the pilgrimage, encouraging open discussion on the matter.