President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has assured that all individuals registered with the Maldives Hajj Corporation for this year's pilgrimage will be able to fulfil their spiritual journey. The president conveyed this assurance in a social media post, marking a pivotal step in addressing long-standing concerns over delays faced by Maldivian pilgrims.
The assurance represents a departure from previous years, when many registered applicants faced prolonged waiting periods. This year's breakthrough coincides with President Dr Muizzu's broader reforms aimed at streamlining the corporation's operations and improving access for Maldivian citizens.
On 5 January, the president initiated regulatory amendments to prioritise first-time pilgrims. By 18 March, the updated framework had been enacted, granting precedence to individuals aged over 65 who have yet to perform the pilgrimage. As per the revised guidelines, those above the age of 75 are also permitted to travel with a caretaker—preferably a family member—based on health considerations.
The revised regulations also address repeat applicants. Individuals who have previously performed Hajj must now observe a mandatory waiting period of five years before reapplying under the corporation’s arrangements.
The President's Office has disclosed ongoing negotiations with Saudi Arabian authorities to secure an increased Hajj quota for the Maldives. Such measures, the President's Office has said, aim to alleviate waiting times, enhance service standards, and reinforce public confidence in the Hajj Corporation's management.
Data from the Hajj Corporation provides additional context. A total of 9,115 individuals are currently registered for the pilgrimage, including 7,543 under the age of 65, 1,461 aged between 65 and 75, and 111 aged above 75. Notably, 8,623 registrants are first-time pilgrims, illustrating the significance of the newly prioritised framework.