A delegation from Saudi Arabia has begun arriving in the Maldives to complete preparations for this year’s Hajj under the Makkah Route Initiative, a programme designed to make the journey to the holy sites faster and more convenient for Maldivian pilgrims.

The first member of the delegation, Operations Manager Omar Abdul Majeed R. Al-Daej, arrived in the Maldives on Saturday night. A further 18 officials are expected to arrive on 11 May to support the final arrangements.

The Saudi-led initiative enables pilgrims to complete immigration procedures before departing from the Maldives, eliminating the need for lengthy processing upon arrival in Jeddah. Pilgrims’ luggage is also transported directly to their hotels in Makkah, significantly reducing waiting times and easing the overall journey.

The Maldives joined the programme during last year’s Hajj season, with the service officially inaugurated by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The launch ceremony was attended by Lieutenant General Sulaiman bin Abdulaziz Al-Yahya, Adviser to the Saudi Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Makkah Route Initiative Committee, together with a senior Saudi delegation.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Awqaf said the Maldives secured inclusion in the initiative following extensive discussions with Saudi authorities.

The Government expressed appreciation to Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for extending the service to the Maldives, describing it as a reflection of the strong ties and goodwill between the two countries.

The Ministry also thanked Saudi Ambassador to the Maldives Yahya Hassan Alqahtani and staff of the Saudi Embassy in Malé for their continued support in facilitating arrangements for Maldivian Hajj pilgrims.