A senior delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has held an official meeting with the Minister of Islamic Affairs of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, to coordinate efforts for the implementation of the Makkah Route Initiative. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in Malé, was part of the broader efforts to streamline the Hajj pilgrimage process for Maldivian pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia during Hajj season 1446H.
During the meeting, Dr. Shaheem warmly welcomed the Saudi delegation and expressed sincere appreciation to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for making the Makkah Route Initiative accessible to Maldivian pilgrims. He extended special thanks to the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, and the Minister of Interior, HRH Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, for their key roles in supporting this initiative.
He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to the effective implementation of the Makkah Route Initiative, emphasizing that all relevant state institutions will work in close collaboration to ensure a seamless and well-coordinated process. The initiative is scheduled to officially launch in the Maldives on 26 May 2025, aligning with the departure of the first group of Maldivian pilgrims for Hajj. This initial flight will carry 235 pilgrims, who will benefit from expedited immigration and pre-departure processing under the program. The Maldives’ inclusion in the Makkah Route Initiative is anticipated to significantly enhance the travel experience for Maldivian pilgrims by simplifying immigration procedures and improving overall service delivery.
Dr. Shaheem also acknowledged the essential support provided by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, and the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in the Maldives. Their collective efforts were instrumental in facilitating the Maldives’ participation in this program, which offers a streamlined and dignified travel experience for Hajj pilgrims by completing immigration and travel formalities at the point of departure.
Highlighting the long-standing relationship between the two nations, Dr. Shaheem emphasized that the Maldives and Saudi Arabia have shared a strong and respectful partnership over the years. He noted that under the leadership of His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, this bond has further deepened, especially in the area of Islamic and religious cooperation. President Dr. Muizzu’s clear guidance and support were vital in paving the way for the successful implementation of this program in the Maldives. His administration remains committed to improving religious services for Maldivians and expanding international cooperation in line with Islamic values.
Dr. Shaheem also conveyed gratitude to the government of Saudi Arabia for the continuous support and special privileges extended to Maldivian pilgrims. These include enhanced services and smooth coordination throughout the Hajj pilgrimage process, reflecting the close friendship between the two nations.
H.E. Major General Mohamed Omar A Alghamdi, Director General of the General Administration of Hajj and Umrah Affairs at the Saudi Ministry of Interior, also addressed the meeting, stating that the Maldives holds a special place in the hearts of the Saudi people. He commended Maldivians for their respectful adherence to the rules and guidelines established by the Saudi authorities during the Hajj pilgrimage and reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to ensuring a supportive and welcoming environment for Maldivian pilgrims.
The ongoing collaboration between the Maldives and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues to enhance the spiritual journey of Maldivian pilgrims, while further strengthening the broader diplomatic and religious ties between the two nations.
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