The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has submitted a formal request to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj to include the Maldives in the Mecca Route Initiative.

Speaking on April 27, the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, confirmed that the Ministry has officially approached the Saudi authorities with this request.

Inclusion in the Mecca Route Initiative would mean that Maldivian pilgrims would no longer be required to wait at Jeddah Airport upon arrival. Instead, they would be able to proceed directly to their accommodation.

Pilgrims would also complete all necessary procedures in the Maldives prior to departure, thus eliminating the need for such formalities upon arrival in Saudi Arabia.

At present, seven countries have been granted access to the Mecca Route Initiative.

Minister Dr Shaheem expressed hope that this opportunity would soon be extended to Maldivian pilgrims, noting that the Government is actively working towards this goal.

The Minister emphasised the Government's commitment to facilitating and easing the pilgrimage journey for Maldivians. Currently, pilgrims often experience long waiting times at Jeddah Airport, making the journey more exhausting. He stated that participation in the Mecca Route Initiative would provide significant relief and convenience for pilgrims.