The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced the selection of 50 individuals who will be sent for the Hajj pilgrimage this year, with all expenses covered by the Government. The lucky participants were chosen through a draw held today, with 302 eligible individuals vying for the opportunity.
The draw, conducted based on the Maldives Zakat Houses’ register of poor and low-income citizens, saw 50 names selected from the pool of applicants. To ensure that the opportunity reaches as many deserving individuals as possible, an additional 10 people were also selected as alternates in case any of the winners are unable to attend.
This initiative is part of the government’s commitment to support its citizens in performing one of the five pillars of Islam, with the costs for the pilgrimage completely paid for by the state. The draw follows a review of the Zakat House register, which was last updated in December.
The commitment to send 1,000 people to Hajj at the government’s expense was made by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during his first term, as part of his pledge to assist those from poorer backgrounds in fulfilling this important religious obligation. The first group of 50 recipients were sent for the 2024 Hajj season, with this year’s selection continuing the promise made by the President in August 2023 during his presidential campaign.
With this move, the government aims to support the underprivileged in accessing Hajj, ensuring that the pilgrimage is not limited by financial constraints.
