The Maldives Hajj Corporation has signed a landmark agreement with the national airline, Maldivian, to organize and facilitate the pilgrimage trips for this year’s Hajj. The agreement, formalized on Monday, February 17, 2025, marks a historic collaboration between the two state-owned entities.
The signing ceremony took place at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, where Maldives Hajj Corporation’s Managing Director, Mohamed Shakeel, and Maldivian’s Managing Director, Ibrahim Iyas, both signed the agreement. This collaboration will allow Maldivians to travel to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage on flights operated by the national carrier.
Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem, addressed attendees during the ceremony and underscored the significance of the agreement. He praised the efforts of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu for making it possible for Maldivians to travel to Saudi Arabia for Hajj through their national airline after many years. “This is a very historic day,” Minister Shaheem remarked, emphasizing that this would be the first time Maldivians can make their Hajj journey with Maldivian Airlines.
Managing Director of the Maldives Hajj Corporation, Mohamed Shakeel, also spoke at the ceremony, announcing that 500 of the 1,000 pilgrims from the Maldives would be flying with Maldivian Airlines this year. Shakeel noted that this partnership with Maldivian Airlines is part of President Muizzu’s broader initiative to reduce the costs associated with the Hajj pilgrimage, making it more accessible to Maldivian citizens.
This agreement is seen as a positive step towards reducing the financial burden on Maldivian pilgrims and facilitating easier and more convenient travel arrangements for one of Islam’s most sacred journeys. The partnership between the Maldives Hajj Corporation and Maldivian Airlines is expected to continue fostering closer ties between the two organizations while serving the nation’s pilgrims with enhanced services.
