Maldives eyes unused Hajj quotas from other nations

The Maldives has held discussions with Saudi Arabia to secure additional Hajj quota opportunities that go unused by other countries, according to Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed.

The meeting was held during Minister Shaheem’s official visit to Saudi Arabia, at the invitation of Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah. The talks focused on the possibility of accessing extra slots through Saudi Arabia’s “Hajj Mubashir” initiative, which reallocates unused quotas to countries in need.

Saudi Arabia currently allocates a quota of 1,000 pilgrims to the Maldives. This includes 850 pilgrims selected in queue order, 100 assistants such as medical aides and cooks, and 50 pilgrims sponsored by the government under the “poor list.”

Shaheem noted that while additional quotas have not yet been granted, discussions are ongoing. He expressed gratitude to King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their continued efforts to improve Hajj and Umrah services and facilitate global pilgrim access.

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, met with the Minister of Hajj and Umrah of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah. pic.twitter.com/5fi0cm39yt

— Ministry of Islamic Affairs (@MVIaffairs) November 9, 2025

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has consistently supported Maldivian pilgrims, including through the Mecca Route Initiative, which streamlines immigration procedures at Jeddah airport. This year, Maldivian pilgrims were able to reach their hotels faster and begin Umrah preparations with greater ease. Free medicines were also provided, and tent accommodations in Mina and Arafat were upgraded.

During the visit, Maldives and Saudi Arabia signed their annual Hajj services agreement. Minister Shaheem signed on behalf of the Maldives, while Minister Tawfiq represented Saudi Arabia. The agreement outlines payment procedures, service delivery by Hajj companies, and the establishment of a Hajj Mission in Malé during the pilgrimage season.

Shaheem also conveyed President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment to strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia and ensuring equitable access to Hajj opportunities. He reiterated recent policy changes aimed at improving fairness in quota distribution, including prioritizing first-time pilgrims, increasing access for those over 65, and reducing the government-reserved share of the quota.

Next year’s Hajj is scheduled to begin on May 25 next year, corresponding to 8 Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH, subject to moon sighting.