Minister of Islamic Affairs Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has met with Dr Tawfiq Rabia, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, during an official visit to the Kingdom.

The meeting, held at Minister Dr Tawfiq’s invitation, is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the bilateral relationship between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia, with a focus on Hajj and Umrah services.

Minister Dr Shaheem praised the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz for improving the quality of Hajj and Umrah services and highlighted Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s contributions to facilitating the pilgrimage process for Muslims globally.

He also expressed gratitude for the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah’s continued support in addressing challenges faced by Maldivian pilgrims.

A key part of the discussion centered on enhancing the relationship between the two countries. Minister Dr Shaheem reaffirmed President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment to strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia and underscored the importance of their continued collaboration, particularly in the area of Hajj management.

Minister Dr Shaheem also commended Saudi Arabia’s annual Hajj Exhibition for introducing innovative management practices. He noted that the Maldives had hosted its own special Hajj and Umrah conference the previous year to improve its handling of the pilgrimage.

The ministers also discussed the upcoming signing of the Hajj Agreement for the year 1446, which will be finalised between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia.

As part of the visit, Minister Dr Shaheem invited Minister Dr Tawfiq Rabia to visit the Maldives, furthering the spirit of cooperation between the two nations.