The first group of Maldivian pilgrims travelling for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage is scheduled to depart for Makkah today.

According to Maldives Hajj Corporation, a total of 235 pilgrims will travel on the first flight operated by Saudia. The flight is scheduled to depart at 3:25 p.m.

Special bus services have been arranged to transport pilgrims to Velana International Airport, with services beginning from at 10:30 a.m. Authorities stated that buses will operate on six routes and commence approximately five hours before departure time.

The Hajj Corporation stated that 50 per cent of Maldivian pilgrims will travel on Saudia flights, while the remaining pilgrims will travel on flights operated by Maldivian. A total of four flights have been scheduled for transporting pilgrims this year.

The remaining departure flights are scheduled for May 17, May 18 and May 19. The Maldives receives an annual Hajj quota of 1,000 pilgrims.