The government has decided to make significant changes to the Hajj queue system starting next year, giving priority to first-time pilgrims and the elderly. According to Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, the Minister of Islamic Affairs, who revealed this information in the People’s Majlis, priority will be given to first-time Hajj pilgrims and those over 65 years of age in the Hajj queue starting next year.
“These changes were introduced by the President after studying and researching the practices in the Islamic world, during the Cabinet meeting held on January 5, 2025,” the Minister said.
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, and due to COVID-19, the number of people in the queue has increased significantly as pilgrims were unable to perform Hajj for two years. Shaheem has stated that it is very important to give priority to the elderly in performing this act of worship. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has set special rules to organize the Hajj quota fairly. These rules include giving priority to first-time pilgrims and limiting repeat pilgrimages to once every five years. Additionally, a certain percentage will be allocated each year for those over 65 years old. Hajj operators, service providers, and health professionals will be exempt from these changes.
President Muizzu’s promise is to strengthen Hajj affairs and provide comprehensive services to Maldivian pilgrims. As such, the “Makkah Route Initiative” has been introduced to Maldivians. This is an effort initiated by Saudi Arabia to provide a convenient arrangement for pilgrims. Under this service, Maldivian pilgrims’ biometric data will be collected, electronic Hajj visas will be facilitated, and upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims can go directly to their hotels without waiting at the airport.
“President Muizzu’s government is bringing revolutionary changes in this area for Maldivian citizens. The Makkah Route has been introduced to the country’s citizens, and arrangements have been made for those going for Hajj from the Maldives to go directly to their hotels without waiting at the Jeddah Airport arrival,” the Minister said.
Additionally, this year, Bank of Maldives (BML) has set a limit of 1,750 US dollars on the debit card of each person who went for Hajj. With all these changes, Maldivian Hajj pilgrims will have additional facilities to perform the pilgrimage, and the opportunity will be expanded to more people.
