Saudi Delegation Arrives in Maldives to Prepare Makkah Route Hajj Initiative

A delegation of 18 officials from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has arrived in the Maldives to coordinate preparations for the Makkah Route Initiative. The team will oversee the administration and logistics for Maldivian Hajj pilgrims traveling in the Islamic year 1447. The Makkah Route Initiative is a Saudi-led program designed to streamline the journey for Hajj worshippers, reducing bureaucratic delays and easing the transition for pilgrims arriving from various international locations. The Maldives officially joined the initiative last year following extensive diplomatic dialogue between the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments and senior Saudi authorities. The project was inaugurated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu in a ceremony attended by Lieutenant General Sulaiman bin Abdulaziz Al-Yahya, the Advisor to the Saudi Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Makkah Route Initiative Committee. By integrating Maldivian pilgrims into this system, the government aims to provide a more seamless experience, ensuring that travel and processing are handled efficiently before pilgrims even depart their home country. The arrival of this high-level delegation ensures that all administrative frameworks are in place for the upcoming season. The first group of Maldivian Hajj pilgrims is scheduled to depart for the holy city on May 15.