Shaheem confident Maldives will be included any increase in Hajj quota by Saudi

Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, on Monday, expressed confidence that the Maldives is expected to be included among the countries receiving additional Hajj quotas if Saudi Arabia decides to increase allocations.

Responding to a question about the possibility of increasing Hajj quotas at a joint press conference held today by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the Maldives Hajj Corporation, the Minister clarified that decisions on quota allocations rest solely with the Saudi government.

The Minister noted that Saudi Arabia has not increased Hajj quotas for any country since the COVID-19 pandemic. However, he stressed that the current administration, along with him in his capacity as Minister, has conveyed to the relevant Saudi authorities the strong demand among Maldivians for an increase in the country’s quota.

"I am confident, by the will of Allah, that when quotas are increased for nations, the Maldives will be on that list. This is because Saudi authorities maintain an exceptionally close relationship with the Maldives regarding Hajj and Umrah affairs," the Minister said.

Minister Shaheem also highlighted the benefits pilgrims have experienced over the past two years through the 'Makkah Route' initiative. He noted that the lengthy waiting periods previously experienced at Jeddah airport have been eliminated, significantly improving convenience for pilgrims.

"Pilgrims now travel directly from Malé, land at the airport, and proceed to their hotels without having to wait at Jeddah airport. This is a massive relief... The inclusion of the Maldives in this initiative symbolizes the brotherly bond Saudi Arabia shares with our country," Minister Shaheem remarked.

The government has also decided to give priority to individuals aged 70 and above who have been on the Hajj waiting list for at least three years, enabling them to undertake the pilgrimage in the upcoming year, 1448 AH.

According to the Ministry, the decision was made in response to the substantial number of elderly citizens on the Hajj waiting list. With the annual quota remaining limited, concerns have grown that individuals who have made payments and waited for extended periods may lose the opportunity to perform Hajj as they grow older.