Maldivian, the national airline of the Maldives, has launched its first direct Umrah operations, enhancing travel services for Maldivian pilgrims.

The airline began Umrah flights on July 22 in partnership with the Maldives Hajj Corporation and The Traveller Group. According to the airline, over 750 pilgrims are scheduled to travel to Jeddah for Umrah this month, with dedicated flights operating on July 22 and 27, 2025.

The service will be conducted using Maldivian’s wide-body Airbus aircraft, offering direct connectivity to Jeddah. The initiative is a response to increased demand from local Umrah organisers and will initially serve registered pilgrims.

The commencement of direct Umrah flights represents a new chapter for the national carrier, which has previously facilitated international Hajj and Umrah charter services. The current operation, however, is the first time scheduled direct flights are being offered under an official partnership framework.

Maldivian stated that the launch underscores its commitment to making the sacred journey more accessible, comfortable, and efficient for Maldivian citizens and reflects objective to strengthen national aviation infrastructure and expand the scope of religious and regional air travel.