A senior delegation from Saudi Arabia arrived in the Maldives on Friday to implement the newly introduced Makkah Route Initiative for Maldivian Hajj pilgrims.
The advance team was officially welcomed at Velana International Airport by the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, along with senior officials from the Ministry.
The delegation comprises representatives from key Saudi institutions, including the Ministry of Hajj, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Maldives Immigration, and other relevant authorities. Their primary mission is to oversee and carry out preparations to ensure the successful rollout of the initiative in the Maldives.
Saudi Arabia decided to include the Maldives in the Makkah Route Initiative on 10 May. The Makkah Route Initiative is scheduled to commence on 26 May, aligning with the departure of the first batch of Maldivian pilgrims for Hajj. A total of 26 officials from Saudi Arabia will be in the Maldives to support the implementation efforts.
This special initiative, launched under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman, is designed to streamline travel and immigration procedures for pilgrims, providing a smoother and more convenient Hajj experience from the point of departure.
According to the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, the inclusion of the Maldives in the Makkah Route Initiative reflects the strong and growing bilateral ties between Saudi Arabia and the Maldives. It also marks a significant milestone achieved under the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, further strengthening the nation’s Islamic and diplomatic engagements.
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.