On 17th May 2025, a delegation from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia arrived in the Maldives to oversee the implementation of Makkah Route Initiative for Hajj 1446 H.
Makkah Route Initiative is a programme designed to streamline the Hajj pilgrimage immigration process. Through the Initiative, Maldivian pilgrims will complete their immigration procedures for entry into Saudi Arabia while still at Velana International Airport, Maldives. This streamlined process is expected to significantly reduce the time pilgrims spend at Jeddah airport, thereby making their overall travel experience much more comfortable.
The first group of Maldivian pilgrims is scheduled to depart on 26 May 2025. On the same day, the Makkah Route Initiative for the Maldives will be officially inaugurated at Velana International Airport.
