In a significant demonstration of the strengthening relationship between the Maldives and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed departed this morning for Mecca to perform the Hajj pilgrimage. Their journey is undertaken at the special invitation of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, with all associated expenses graciously covered by the Saudi Royal Court .
Accompanying the President and First Lady are key members of the Maldivian administration, including Minister of Finance and Planning Moosa Zameer, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu, Chief Imam of the Islamic Center Sheikh Mohamed Latheef, and Chief of Protocol Mohamed Shahudhy.
President Muizzu has praised the exceptional arrangements made for this year’s Hajj, highlighting the implementation of the Makkah Route Initiative. This program allows Maldivian pilgrims to complete all immigration, customs, and health procedures at Velana International Airport prior to departure, streamlining their pilgrimage experience .
Importantly, President Muizzu clarified that his participation in the Hajj does not impact the official Maldivian quota of 1,000 pilgrims. All expenses for the President and First Lady’s pilgrimage are covered by the Saudi Royal Court, ensuring that state funds remain unaffected .
As the President and his delegation embark on this spiritual journey, the Maldivian people look forward to the strengthening of religious and diplomatic ties that such engagements foster. This pilgrimage marks a significant milestone in the Maldives’ Islamic heritage and its evolving relationship with the broader Muslim world.
