President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that Maldivians undertaking the Hajj pilgrimage will now be able to receive medication free of charge following consultation with a doctor, starting today. He made the announcement during a visit to the hotel where Maldivian pilgrims are accommodated in Makkah.
President Dr Muizzu stated that, going forward, all necessary medication and vaccination for Hajj will be made available free of charge on every inhabited island in the Maldives. He added that the required facilities would be established at island level to ensure the smooth delivery of vaccination services and other related support.
During the visit, the President underscored his Administration’s commitment to providing comprehensive support throughout the entire pilgrimage – starting from their arrival in Makkah until their return to Maldives. He noted that the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the Maldives Hajj Corporation are working closely with pilgrims to address their needs at every stage.
The President also acknowledged the efforts of the Saudi government in making extensive preparations for this year’s Hajj season. He noted that the Makkah Route Initiative, under which Maldivian pilgrims are travelling, has greatly improved both convenience and efficiency, particularly in immigration and logistics processes.
He further stated that living arrangements in Mina for Maldivians had been significantly upgraded compared to previous years and added that a dedicated health clinic had also been established exclusively for Maldivian pilgrims. He expressed appreciation to King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, both personally and on behalf of Maldivian pilgrims, for their continued hospitality and support.
President Dr Muizzu also remarked that the Saudi government views Maldivians with particular warmth, describing the close bond between the two nations as akin to that of siblings – a gesture he said should be a source of pride for all Maldivians.
The President and First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed spent time with individual pilgrims during the visit, engaging with them on various matters related to their pilgrimage experience.
This year, 1,000 Maldivians are participating in the Hajj pilgrimage.