President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed have concluded their Hajj pilgrimage and departed Saudi Arabia on Monday, following a special invitation extended by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.
The presidential visit, made at the request of His Majesty King Salman, included both spiritual and diplomatic engagements. President Muizzu joined millions of Muslims from around the world in completing the sacred rites of Hajj, while also using the opportunity to meet with Maldivian pilgrims and senior Saudi officials.
Speaking during an interaction with Maldivians performing Hajj, President Muizzu reiterated his administration’s commitment to enhancing services for pilgrims. He announced government plans to offer free pre-departure medical check-ups, vaccinations, and better accommodation arrangements. He also assured pilgrims of improved access to free healthcare while in Saudi Arabia.
The visit was marked by high-level talks with Saudi leadership. In a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the two leaders explored ways to deepen bilateral cooperation and build on the historically close relationship between the Maldives and the Kingdom.
Additionally, the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfig F. Al-Rabiah, paid a courtesy call on President Muizzu. The President expressed appreciation for the exceptional care and hospitality extended to Maldivian pilgrims, and praised the Kingdom’s efforts in ensuring the safety and well-being of all Hajj participants.
As the visit concluded, the President and First Lady were officially seen off by His Highness Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi Al Saud, Governor of Jeddah.
President Muizzu extended heartfelt thanks to King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and the Saudi people for their generosity and continued support for Maldivian pilgrims. He noted that the Kingdom’s hospitality had once again made the spiritual journey both memorable and comfortable.
The President was part of an exclusive group of international leaders invited by the Saudi Government to undertake Hajj this year, with the Kingdom covering all travel and accommodation expenses.
Accompanying the President were several senior government officials, including Minister of Finance and Treasury Moosa Zameer, Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel along with his spouse. Also part of the delegation were Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu and spouse, Chief Imam of the Islamic Centre Sheikh Mohamed Latheef and spouse, and Chief of Protocol Mohamed Shahudy.
