Gov’t Steps in to Repatriate Stranded Umrah Pilgrims in Saudi Arabia

The Maldives’ state-run Hajj and Umrah service provider, Hajj Corporation, has initiated efforts to bring back 24 Maldivian Umrah pilgrims stranded in Saudi Arabia. 

The group, including three children aged 12, had travelled to the country through the Al-Hijra Umrah Group in late 2024 but found themselves unable to return after their flights were not arranged.

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The Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, announced that the government has coordinated with Hajj Corporation, which is currently repatriating its own pilgrims, to facilitate the return of the affected individuals. The corporation’s Managing Director, Mohamed Shakeel, has been instructed to expedite the process.

Minister Shaheem reassured the public that the government remains committed to assisting Maldivian citizens in distress, in line with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s directive to work closely with the public.

Reports suggest that Al-Hijra Umrah Group had divided the pilgrims into three groups, each travelling on different flights. However, their arrangements for the pilgrims’ stay in Saudi Arabia have been criticised as inadequate, with no plans made for their return journey.

This incident is the latest in a series of reports concerning small Hajj and Umrah groups mishandling pilgrims. Past cases have included allegations of financial scams, highlighting a recurring issue within the sector.

The government’s swift intervention seeks to mitigate the distress faced by these pilgrims and underscores the need for greater oversight of private operators managing Hajj and Umrah travel arrangements.