In recent years, the number of pilgrims from Maldives seeking Umrah pilgrimage has been increasing each year. But in December, Saudi Arabia is set to receive a record number of pilgrims from the island nation.
Umrah is a sacred journey that holds immense significance in the hearts of all Muslims. It is a beloved Sunnah that offers a unique opportunity to refresh one’s faith and cleanse one’s soul.
The number of people going for Umrah in Maldives has rapidly increased in recent years which includes young people and children. It is also common for entire families to undertake the blessed pilgrimage.
According to the Maldives Airport Company Limited (MACL) schedule, so far 5,796 pilgrims will travel to the blessed city of Mecca to perform the pilgrimage this month.
The first group departed for Mecca on Sunday while the last group will depart from the Maldives on 27 December.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs said the average for Umrah Pilgrimage in December is usually around 4,000 people. Though it was difficult to say exactly how many Maldivians will perform the Umrah pilgrimage this month, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs confirmed that a record number of people will leave for Umrah this year.
There are currently about 50 Umrah groups registered in the country. However, some people do not travel through a registered group. So, some Umrah groups have said that about 8,000 people from Maldives are estimated to go for Umrah Pilgrimage this December.