The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has temporarily suspended the permit granted to Al-Abrar Hajj and Umrah Group to take Maldivians for Umrah after the company cancelled a scheduled pilgrimage without a valid reason.

In a statement issued today, the ministry said it had received complaints regarding the cancellation of an Umrah trip that had been scheduled to take place from 3 March to 26 March 2026.

Following a review, the ministry confirmed that the pilgrimage had been cancelled without a justifiable reason and in violation of the regulations governing Umrah travel from the Maldives.

As a result, the ministry stated that the permit granted to Al-Abrar Group to organise Umrah pilgrimages has been temporarily withheld, adding that further action will be taken in accordance with the relevant policies after completing the necessary review.

The ministry also noted that Maldives Hajj Corporation has arranged Umrah travel for 28 pilgrims who had initially registered with Al-Abrar Group. Authorities are continuing efforts to assist the remaining pilgrims who were affected by the cancellation.

According to the ministry, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has instructed relevant institutions to facilitate arrangements for those who were unable to travel, while efforts are ongoing to provide support to affected pilgrims.