In a momentous spiritual journey, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu departed from Medina en route to Mecca to perform the sacred Hajj pilgrimage. Prior to his departure, President Muizzu visited the Prophet’s Mosque, where he offered prayers and paid his respects at the Rawdah, honoring the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). His departure from the Haramain High-Speed Rail Station in Medina was marked by a warm send-off from Ibrahim bin Abdullah Barri, Director of the Royal Protocol Office in the region, along with other esteemed officials .
This pilgrimage holds special significance as it is undertaken at the gracious invitation of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. All arrangements, including travel and accommodations for President Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed, have been generously provided by the Saudi Royal Court .
President Muizzu has lauded this year’s Hajj arrangements as exemplary, highlighting the enhanced comfort and efficiency afforded to Maldivian pilgrims. He specifically praised the implementation of the Makkah Route Initiative, which streamlines immigration, customs, and health procedures at Velana International Airport in Malé, allowing pilgrims to proceed directly to their accommodations upon arrival in Saudi Arabia .
The Maldives’ inclusion in the Makkah Route Initiative underscores the deepening ties between the two nations. President Muizzu expressed profound gratitude to King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their unwavering support and commitment to facilitating the spiritual journeys of Maldivian pilgrims .
As the President undertakes this sacred pilgrimage, the Maldivian people join in prayers for his spiritual fulfillment and the continued strengthening of the bonds between the Maldives and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.