Islamic Ministry ponders ban on staff from operating umrah groups

The Islamic Ministry is considering imposing a ban on its staff from operating umrah tour groups.

The move comes amid public concern over the operation of private umrah groups by senior ministry officials, drawing allegations of corruption and conflict of interest.

In a post on Facebook on Wednesday night, Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed noted that the Islamic Ministry is in charge of regulating private umrah groups.

He said that the ministry is therefore engaged in discussions regarding introducing a potential ban on staff from active involvement in operation of private umrah groups.

Shaheem did not provide any details.

The Maldives has dozens of tour groups that provide umrah services, some of which have been accused of defrauding pilgrims.