Ahead of Hajj 1447 AH, Hajj Corporation Formalises Deal to Improve Pilgrim Services in Mina and Arafat

The Maldives Hajj Corporation has formalised a strategic agreement to improve the quality of services provided to Maldivian pilgrims during the annual Hajj, securing upgraded accommodations and logistical support at the key pilgrimage sites of Mina and Arafat. The accord was signed during the Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025, currently underway in Jeddah.

The agreement was concluded with Rawaf Mina Pilgrims Services Company, a licensed provider operating under the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Rawaf Mina specialises in tent accommodations and logistical coordination for pilgrims in Mina and Arafat.

Managing Director Mohamed Shakeel signed on behalf of the Maldives Hajj Corporation. Representing Rawaf Mina was Chief Executive Officer Zuhair bin Abdul Hamid Sadayo. The partnership builds on what Hajj Corporation officials described as the Maldives’ most successful year to date in delivering high-quality services to pilgrims in Mina and Arafat, achieved during the previous Hajj season.

A key outcome of recent collaboration between the Maldivian and Saudi governments has been the elevation of service classification in Mina. Maldivian pilgrims, who previously received ‘Category C’ services, will now benefit from ‘Category B’ provisions, offering improved facilities, greater comfort, and more dedicated arrangements.

This upgrade is expected to ease the experience of pilgrims during their extended stay in Mina, which includes the 8th day of Hajj and the 11th, 12th, and 13th days following their return from Arafat and Muzdalifah. While Mina holds deep religious significance, its logistical demands are formidable, with millions of pilgrims residing there simultaneously.

Historically, Maldivian pilgrims were housed in shared tents alongside individuals from other countries, with communal restroom facilities and limited access to culturally appropriate meals. The provision of traditional Maldivian cuisine had posed logistical difficulties.

Under the new arrangement, pilgrims will be accommodated in dedicated tents, significantly improving privacy and sleeping conditions. Previously, pilgrims slept on mattresses in shared spaces; the revised setup ensures exclusive access to special tents.

Meal distribution, once managed through parcelled deliveries by the Mutawif, the agent responsible for tent logistics, will now be conducted via buffet service. This change is expected to enhance both the quality and cultural relevance of the dining experience.

The agreement with Rawaf Mina forms part of broader preparations for the upcoming Hajj season. Transport logistics have also advanced, with Saudi Airlines committing to carry 50 percent of Maldivian pilgrims travelling to the Kingdom.

Medical support arrangements have been finalised through a partnership with Al Abeer Medical Group, a Saudi-based healthcare provider. The agreement ensures access to essential health services for Maldivian pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage.