Pilgrims Stranded in Saudi Arabia to Be Brought Home as Maldives Moves Swiftly on Repatriation

Islamic Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed says the government is arranging the return of 50 Maldivian Umrah pilgrims stranded in Saudi Arabia after transit flights were cancelled due to the Middle East conflict. He said all pilgrims are safe and in good condition.

Speaking at the press conference of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s Special Ministerial Committee on the crisis, Shaheem said the disruptions began when several Middle Eastern airlines halted or reduced services, affecting both outbound and return journeys for Maldivian pilgrims.

The government has already resolved issues faced by pilgrims who were due to travel via transit routes. “The government chartered a flight and sent them all for Umrah,” Shaheem said, noting that Maldivian Airlines had operated a special charter to ensure no one missed their pilgrimage.

He said the 50 pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia were unable to return due to the cancellation of a connecting flight. The ministry and the Hajj Corporation are now coordinating their repatriation. “Arrangements will be made for them to return on the national airline, Maldivian,” he said.

Shaheem added that pilgrims who had not yet departed for Umrah when flights were cancelled were also transported on a Maldivian charter, ensuring no disruption to their plans.

Despite the regional unrest, Shaheem said this year’s Hajj preparations remain unaffected. “There is no indication that Hajj will face any disruption due to these developments. Everything is very well organised,” he said. This year’s Hajj falls in May, and the Maldives has already completed arrangements for its full quota of 1,000 pilgrims. Visas have been issued and accommodation secured.

He noted that more than 2,000 Maldivians travelled to Mecca for Umrah during the last 15 days of Ramadan, reflecting strong demand despite the uncertainty.

Shaheem said the government’s rapid response reflects its commitment to safeguarding citizens abroad. “There has been no difficulty for our pilgrims due to the ongoing war, and we do not expect any,” he said.