The Ministry of Islamic Affairs conducted a lottery on Tuesday to select 50 individuals who will receive free Hajj pilgrimages sponsored by the Government.

The lottery drew from 302 eligible candidates who met guidelines for the Government-sponsored program. An additional 10 people were selected as reserves in case any chosen pilgrims cannot participate.

Candidates were selected from the Zakat House's registry, which was updated in December 2024.

The initiative continues President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's fulfillment of his August 18, 2023, campaign pledge made during a presidential election rally in Meemu Mulah to sponsor 1,000 underprivileged Maldivians for Hajj during his first term. The Government previously sponsored 50 pilgrims during the 2024 Hajj season.