The Maldives Police Service has advised travellers to plan ahead for possible traffic delays near Velana International Airport (VIA) on the upcoming Hajj departure dates.

Pilgrims from the Maldives are scheduled to depart for Saudi Arabia on May 26th, 27th, 29th, and 30th. With 1,000 people travelling for Hajj this year, the police expect increased activity in the airport area and are taking steps to ensure smooth traffic flow.

Additional officers will be deployed around the airport on these dates to assist with traffic management. Travellers departing on the same days for other destinations are also encouraged to arrive early and complete their pre-departure procedures in good time.

The police have also requested those accompanying pilgrims and drivers of passenger vehicles to follow traffic guidelines and cooperate with on-site officers.

The advisory is part of the Maldives Police Service’s routine traffic management measures during periods of high airport activity, such as Hajj and Umrah travel and peak holiday seasons.