President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih bid farewell on Monday to the final batch of Maldivian pilgrims departing for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform the Hajj. The President met with the 288 intending pilgrims at Velana International Airport (VIA) this afternoon, wishing them a "Mabroor Hajj" and a safe journey.

The President appointed Vice President Faisal Naseem as the Amir al-Hajj for 2023. As the Amir al-Hajj, Vice President Naseem will oversee the smooth and safe operation of the Maldivian pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage.