Saudi Team Arrives to Launch Makkah Route for Maldivian Pilgrims

A high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia arrived in the Maldives on Friday to begin work on the newly introduced Makkah Route Initiative, aimed at easing travel procedures for Maldivian Hajj pilgrims.

The advance team was welcomed at Velana International Airport by the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, and other senior ministry officials. The visiting delegation includes representatives from the Saudi Ministries of Hajj and Foreign Affairs, Maldives Immigration, and other key institutions involved in Hajj preparations.
Saudi Arabia officially included the Maldives in the Makkah Route Initiative on 10 May. The programme is set to begin on 26 May, in line with the departure of the first group of Maldivian pilgrims heading to Makkah. A total of 26 Saudi officials will be based in the Maldives to support the smooth implementation of the initiative.

Launched under the leadership of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Makkah Route Initiative is designed to simplify pre-departure processes for pilgrims. It allows for biometric data collection, visa issuance, and health clearances to be completed before leaving home.

At Velana International Airport, pilgrims will receive boarding passes, have their luggage tagged and registered, and complete all immigration procedures through a special passport team. Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, they will be transported directly to their hotels, with luggage delivered straight to their accommodations—eliminating wait times at the airport.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs noted that the Maldives’ inclusion in this initiative is a significant step in the country's diplomatic and religious engagement, achieved under the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. It also reflects the growing strength of Maldives–Saudi Arabia relations.