Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its aid to the Maldives and hinted at increasing the Hajj quota for Maldivian pilgrims.

This development came during a meeting between President Dr. Muizzu and Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

During the meeting, President Dr. Muizzu expressed his gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s ongoing support for the Maldives, particularly in areas such as fiscal reform, education, healthcare, and economic development.

He also raised the issue of the Hajj pilgrimage, requesting an increase in the quota to allow more Maldivians to perform the religious journey.

In response, Prince Faisal reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to providing aid to the Maldives across various sectors and expressed a willingness to consider raising the Hajj quota for Maldivians.

The Saudi Foreign Minister underscored the strong, brotherly ties between the two nations and reiterated the kingdom’s dedication to supporting the Maldives’ development agenda.

The meeting concluded with both leaders pledging to work closely on issues of mutual interest and to further strengthen the long-standing diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Diplomatic ties between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia were established on March 17, 1981, and have since flourished through continued cooperation and mutual respect.