President Dr Mohamed Muizzu describes Maldives being among the eight beneficiaries of the Makkah Route Initiative as a privilege and honor.

In a message shared on X, the President noted that the first 235 Maldivian worshippers who departed to Mecca were received warmly by Saudi Arabian authorities and as expected, pilgrims and their luggage are directly transported to their accommodation avoiding long lines and wait times at the airport.

The President expressed gratitude to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and expressed hope for a Mabrur Hajj for all pilgrims.

Established in 2018 and officially activated in 2019, the Makkah Route Initiative is a revolutionary program aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage experience for worshipers from select countries. The Saudi government is committed to easing pilgrims’ travel at every step of their journey, and the Makkah Route Initiative is a key component of this effort.