All Maldivian pilgrims arrive safely in Mecca for hajj

All 1,000 Maldivian pilgrims have arrived safely in Mecca for the annual hajj pilgrimage, says the Maldives Hajj Mission.

Maldivian hajj pilgrims departed for Saudi Arabia last week on four flights.

In a statement on Saturday evening, the Maldives Hajj Mission said that all 1,000 pilgrims were doing well, and had arrived safely in Mecca.

The hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and must be undertaken at least once by all Muslims who are able to.

The pilgrimage occurs annually between the eighth and 13th days of Dhul-Hijjah, the 12th and final month on the Islamic lunar calendar.

Worshippers take part in four days of ceremonies with the high point coming on the second day with mass outdoor prayers on Mount Arafat, the hill where the Prophet Mohamed delivered his last sermon.

This year, the day of Arafat will fall on June 5, followed by Eid al-Adha on June 6.

The Maldives was added to the Makkah Route Initiative this year, which means pilgrims were able to complete immigration procedures of both countries at the Velana International Airport before leaving for Saudi Arabia.

This eliminated waiting time at Jeddah airport and allowed pilgrims to directly go to their hotels with their luggage.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed are also in Mecca for the hajj.