Makkah Route Initiative Preperation Begins at VIA Ahead of First Hajj Pilgrims' Departure

News

Practical arrangements for the departure of Maldivian Hajj pilgrims under the Makkah Route Initiative are officially underway at Velana International Airport, marking a historic moment in the Maldives' Hajj operations.

The first group of pilgrims is scheduled to depart on May 26, coinciding with the official inauguration ceremony of the initiative in the Maldives, which will also take place at the airport.

A high-level delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has already arrived in the country to supervise the implementation of the program. Additionally, a 26-member Saudi team is expected to join soon to ensure the smooth execution of the operation.

Earlier today, the advance team of the Makkah Route Initiative held discussions with the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed. The team also engaged in consultative meetings with various Maldivian authorities to coordinate logistics and finalize necessary arrangements.

The Makkah Route Initiative, launched by Saudi Arabia, enables pilgrims to complete Saudi immigration procedures before departing their home countries. For Maldivians, this means streamlined processing at Velana Airport, thereby significantly reducing waiting times upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, especially at Jeddah Airport.

The initiative is expected to greatly enhance the travel experience for pilgrims by minimizing delays and ensuring a more dignified and efficient journey to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.