The Maldives and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have signed their annual agreement on Hajj services, ensuring the smooth management of Maldivian pilgrims during the upcoming Hajj season.

The agreement was signed by the Maldivian Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, and the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah.

It outlines the principles and procedures governing key aspects of the pilgrimage, including payment arrangements for Hajj services, responsibilities of Maldivian service providers, and the establishment of the Maldivian Hajj Mission in Saudi Arabia to oversee the welfare of pilgrims.

Following the signing, both ministers discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral ties.

Minister Shaheem expressed gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for their efforts in improving Hajj and Umrah services, highlighting the Makkah Route Initiative, which has greatly facilitated the pilgrimage experience for Maldivian pilgrims.

He reaffirmed that enhancing relations with Saudi Arabia remains a top priority for President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, and commended the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for their continued support in addressing challenges faced by Maldivian pilgrims.

Minister Shaheem also highlighted the success of Saudi Arabia’s annual Hajj and Umrah exhibition and noted that the Maldives has introduced its own national conference on Hajj and Umrah to promote efficient pilgrimage management.

Minister Dr Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, in turn, acknowledged the Maldives’ commitment to Hajj affairs and appreciated the close collaboration between the two countries.

The official visit of Minister Shaheem to Saudi Arabia was undertaken at the invitation of the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, further underscoring the strong and historic ties between the two nations.