A delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has arrived in the Maldives to oversee preparations for the Makkah Route Initiative, a programme designed to streamline the Hajj journey for Maldivian pilgrims.
The delegation, comprising 18 officials, is tasked with managing and coordinating arrangements under the initiative for the upcoming Hajj season in the Islamic year 1447.
Easing the Pilgrimage Process
The Makkah Route Initiative, launched by Saudi Arabia, aims to simplify travel procedures for pilgrims by completing key immigration and administrative processes in their home countries before departure.
The Maldives was added to the programme last year, marking a significant step in improving travel convenience for local pilgrims.
High-Level Engagement
The initiative was formally inaugurated in the Maldives by President Mohamed Muizzu, in a ceremony attended by senior Saudi officials, including Lieutenant General Sulaiman bin Abdulaziz Al-Yahya, Advisor to the Saudi Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Makkah Route Initiative Committee.
The inclusion of the Maldives followed extensive discussions between the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments and Saudi authorities.
First Pilgrims to Depart Soon
Officials confirmed that the first group of Maldivian pilgrims will depart for Hajj on 15 May, with the Saudi delegation expected to oversee the implementation of the initiative during the departure period.
The programme is expected to significantly reduce processing time upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, allowing pilgrims to begin their religious journey with greater ease.
Authorities say the initiative reflects ongoing cooperation between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia in facilitating religious obligations while improving overall travel efficiency for pilgrims.
