The Government has finalised new rules reserving a separate annual Hajj quota for Maldivians over the age of 65. Speaking during a parliamentary session, the Minister for Islamic Affairs, President Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, stated that the changes, approved at a cabinet meeting on 5 January 2025, will take effect next year following a review of practices in other Islamic countries.

He explained that the new rules also include giving priority to first-time pilgrims, with restrictions preventing Maldivians from performing hajj repeatedly within a five-year period. Exemptions will apply to pilgrims, workers and health experts involved in hajj operations.

The Minister told parliament that the revised system would ensure elderly pilgrims and those performing the pilgrimage for the first time were prioritised when waiting lists were managed. He also highlighted the need to further strengthen the Hajj Corporation so that it could deliver timely services to Maldivian pilgrims.

He added that one of the most important measures introduced to support pilgrims was the extension of the Mecca Route Initiative to the Maldives. The service, launched under the supervision of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is usually reserved for countries with large Saudi quotas but has been made available to Maldivians as well.

Under the initiative, biometric data and electronic hajj visas are processed in advance, allowing Maldivian pilgrims to complete all entry requirements before departure. On arrival in Saudi Arabia, they are taken directly to their hotels, with luggage delivered separately, avoiding airport delays.

In addition to these arrangements, the Government has facilitated financial support for pilgrims. Following a decision by the President, the Bank of Maldives has set a debit card limit of USD 1,750 for each hajj pilgrim this year.