Maldives has been formally included in Saudi Arabia's Makkah Route Initiative, a programme designed to streamline the Hajj pilgrimage process.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs said Maldives Entry into the initiative would ease the journey for Maldivian pilgrims by addressing current travel bottlenecks. Upon arrival at Jeddah Airport, travellers would bypass extended wait times and proceed directly to their accommodations, signalling a major departure from existing procedures.
The Makkah Route Initiative currently benefits pilgrims from seven countries, including Muslim majority countries Malaysia, Pakistan and Indonesia, exemplifying Saudi Arabia's vision for facilitating religious travel.
Central to the initiative is its innovative approach to pre-departure preparations. Pilgrims would finalise logistical and administrative formalities domestically before embarking on their journey, an adjustment that ensures a seamless transition upon reaching their destination.
The Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed thanked King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia along with relevant agencies of the Kingdom for facilitating Maldives’ inclusion in the initiative.
The move aligns with broader efforts to prioritise convenience and accessibility for Maldivian citizens undertaking the sacred journey.
Since its establishment in 2017 by the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Interior, the initiative has received widespread acclaim for simplifying entry procedures to the Kingdom and exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s comprehensive strategy to transform the Hajj experience.
Benefits of the Makkah Route Initiative for Pilgrims
- Ensures that biometric data of the pilgrims is collected, electronic pilgrimage visas are issued and the necessary health and safety measures are taken.
- At Velana International Airport, the luggage of pilgrims will be tagged at the departure terminal, registered and boarding passes will be issued immediately.
- Through the terminal's special passport team, all necessary arrangements for entry into Saudi Arabia will be completed before the pilgrims leave their country.
- Upon arrival at the designated terminal at the Saudi Arabia airport, arrange for immediate transfer to the hotel arranged for the pilgrims.
- Without waiting at the arrival terminal, the luggage will be delivered directly to the hotel where the pilgrims are staying.