The Maldives Hajj Corporation Limited has decided to issue locating devices to pilgrims from the Maldives going on Hajj and Umrah. The issue of pilgrims getting lost in Saudi Arabia occurs from time to time during the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.
Speaking to PSM News, Managing Director Ismail Hameed noted many pilgrims from the Maldives go for Hajj and Umrah, adding that personnel is stationed at the Holy Mosque to assist pilgrims who are in need of direction. In addition, he said the Hajj Corporation has decided to issue locating devices to ensure the safety of the pilgrims. The corporation is currently working to procure a good-quality locating device that can be used to locate pilgrims.
The Maldives received a quota of 1,000 people for the Hajj pilgrimage this year. However, the government of the Maldives has requested the government of Saudi Arabia to increase the number to 2,500. The Hajj Corporation has been given 600 of the 1,000 quotas for the Hajj this year. The quota will be given to those who have paid 75% of the Hajj fare and secured a place in the queue order.
Speaking to PSM News, Manager, Corporation Affairs Aishath Gahir said there are still more than 4,000 individuals in the queue, adding the opportunity is being given to those who have paid 75% of the price of Hajj in the queue order. She also said those who have the opportunity to go for Hajj this year are being informed now.
As in other years, the Hajj Corporation has reserved 5% of the pilgrims for those undergoing treatment for serious illnesses. The corporation said it had bought tickets and secured hotels for Maldivian pilgrims.