The Saudi Government will no longer issue Hajj visas to individuals suffering from serious illnesses, according to Maldives Hajj Corporation Managing Director Mohamed Shakeel.

Speaking on State media, Shakeel said the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has informed that people with severe conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, neurological disorders and memory-related illnesses will not be eligible for Hajj visas.

Following this directive, the Hajj Corporation has decided to conduct medical examinations for all pilgrims. Shakeel said the medical reports will be reviewed by the Corporation’s medical teams, and additional tests will be carried out if necessary. The visa will then be confirmed once the reports are submitted to the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for approval.

He noted that the new regulation does not automatically disqualify all applicants with medical conditions, explaining that minor health issues such as mild heart or kidney problems may still be permitted depending on the severity assessed by Saudi authorities.

Shakeel added that if a person who has been allocated a Hajj slot is unable to obtain a visa due to a serious illness, the slot may be transferred to another individual of their choosing.