In a visit described as deeply symbolic and spiritually significant, Dr. Salah bin Muhammad al-Budair, Imam of Masjid Al-Nabawi in Madinah, paid a courtesy call on President Dr Mohamed Muizzu this morning at the President’s Office.
President Muizzu extended a warm welcome to the Imam, calling it a great honour to host a religious figure of such prominence, and noting that it has been 41 years since an Imam of Masjid Al-Nabawi officially visited the Maldives.
Describing the visit as a reflection of the longstanding brotherly relationship between the Maldives and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the President highlighted the importance of shared Islamic values in uniting both nations.
Imam Dr. Salah expressed his gratitude for the warm reception, commending the Government of Maldives for its hospitality. He conveyed greetings and well-wishes from His Majesty King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reaffirming Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Maldives.
President Muizzu also acknowledged the generous contributions of the Saudi Government, particularly in Islamic education and support for Maldivian pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah.
Both the President and the Imam expressed their shared hope that this landmark visit would further deepen spiritual and diplomatic ties between the two nations, serving as a source of inspiration and unity for the Maldivian people.