Hajj Corporation increases price of Ramadan Umrah packages

Maldives Hajj Corporation Limited (MHCL) has opened applications for the upcoming Ramadan Umrah pilgrimage, announcing a substantial increase in the prices of its annual Ramadan packages.

According to the newly announced rates, the package covering the entire month of Ramadan has been priced at MVR 55,965. This represents an increase of MVR 7,000 from the MVR 48,965 charged for the same package during last Ramadan.

Meanwhile, the cost of the Umrah package covering the final 15 days of Ramadan has been priced at MVR 50,965, marking an MVR 5,000 increase from the previous price of MVR 45,965.

Information publicized by the Hajj Corporation shows that Umrah packages offered during other periods of the year, specifically in July, September, and November, are priced at MVR 30,965. The package for the December Umrah pilgrimage is priced at MVR 31,965.

Apart from these packages, applications are also open for a special Umrah package covering the final ten days of Ramadan and the first six days of Shawwal. The payment deadline for these packages is 13:00pm on December 19, 2024.

Although the Corporation has not explicitly cited a reason for the increase, international airfare, accommodation, and general service costs have risen globally. One of the key factors contributing to these increased expenses is the adverse impact of ongoing regional instability in the Middle East on the global economy.

Maldives Hajj Corporation is mandated to provide Hajj and Umrah services to Maldivian citizens at reasonable prices while maintaining high standards of accommodation, catering, and transportation in Mecca and Medina.

The Corporation’s mandate also includes managing savings schemes to assist individuals with financial planning for Hajj, as well as providing essential training on pilgrimage rituals and compliance with the regulations of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Following the announcement of the increased Umrah package prices, the Corporation has faced significant public criticism and dissatisfaction, with concerns being widely expressed across various social media platforms.