The Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has expressed optimism that the Maldives will not be excluded if Saudi Arabia decides to increase the Hajj pilgrimage quota for Muslim-majority nations.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the second Hajj and Umrah Conference in Male’, Minister Shaheem emphasised that while no official decision has been made by Saudi authorities—due to ongoing construction near the Holy Mosque—the possibility of an expanded quota post-completion offers hope for more Maldivian pilgrims to fulfill their religious obligations.
"If Saudi Arabia increases the quota for any country after the work is completed, hopefully Maldives will be among the first beneficiaries,” he said.
The Minister highlighted the critical role of Hajj and Umrah service providers in the country, acknowledging the efforts of private companies while also pointing to systemic challenges, particularly in Umrah administration. He noted that inefficient administrative arrangements often force last-minute government interventions, leading to undue financial strain on the state-run Maldives Hajj Corporation.
In recognition of excellence in Umrah service provision, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs honoured five leading organisations with commemorative plaques during the ceremony.
The event, attended by the Saudi Ambassador to the Maldives and the Chairman of the Al Safwa Foundation, also marked the signing of a strategic agreement between the Maldives Hajj Corporation and Al Safwa Foundation aimed at enhancing logistical support for pilgrims and building national capacity in Hajj management.