President Mohamed Muizzu has expressed gratitude to the Saudi Arabian government for its exceptional organisation of this year’s Hajj pilgrimage. In a personal letter addressed to Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, President Muizzu conveyed his gratitude and well wishes on the occasion of Eid al-Adha.

The President’s Office said the letter praised the Saudi government and its people for their hospitality and the seamless organisation of the annual Islamic pilgrimage process. President Muizzu also extended his best wishes for the Crown Prince’s health and prosperity and for the continued welfare of the Saudi Arabian people.

This year, the Maldives received an increased Hajj quota, allowing 1,150 Maldivian pilgrims to travel to Saudi Arabia, thanks to both the official allocation and an additional special quota granted by the Saudi government.

The Maldives Hajj Corporation, responsible for pilgrims’ travel, accommodation, and meals, prioritised enhanced services, providing unified lodging and offering Maldivian cuisine options in Makkah, Mina, and Arafah. A notable innovation by the Hajj Corporation was the provision of dedicated tracking devices to each pilgrim, ensuring their safety and preventing any from getting lost.

Over 1.8 million pilgrims from around the globe performed the Hajj this year, according to Saudi official figures.