His Eminence Dr Salah bin Muhammad al-Budair, Imam of Masjid Al-Nabawi in Madinah, departed the Maldives following an official visit — the first by an Imam of Masjid Al-Nabawi in 41 years.

During his visit, Dr Salah al-Budair met with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, as well as Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed and several Maldivian religious scholars.

He also met with preschool students, young Hafiz, young Khatibs, and local Imams and Khatibs during his engagements.

On Wednesday evening, Dr Salah al-Budair led the Maghrib and Isha prayers at Salman Mosque. On Thursday, he led both prayers again at the Islamic Centre. Following the Isha prayer, he delivered a sermon to a packed congregation at the same venue.

Dr Salah al-Budair also led the Friday prayer today at the Islamic Centre before concluding his visit.

Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed formally bid farewell to the Imam at Velana International Airport.