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The government has approved a special arrangement for 324 people aged over 70 to perform Hajj in 1448 AH, prioritising older applicants who have waited at least three years.
Mariyam Adheela
The government has prioritised older applicants for Hajj, considering the Maldives’ limited quota and long waiting lists -- Photo: Hajj Cooperation
Male’: The Maldivian government has decided to give 324 people aged over 70 the opportunity to perform Hajj in 1448 AH under a special arrangement for those who have waited at least three years after paying their fees.
The arrangement applies to applicants who paid their Hajj fees by December 31, 2023. Of the 324 people selected, 86 are aged over 75.
The government said the decision aims to give older people a better opportunity to perform Hajj, considering the Maldives’ limited Hajj quota and the long waiting period faced by applicants.
Authorities said the arrangement would not delay Hajj opportunities expected for people aged between 65 and 69.
The government has also decided to allow eligible family members to accompany older pilgrims as assistants, subject to the relevant conditions.
All applicants selected under the special arrangement must be performing Hajj for the first time to fulfil their obligatory pilgrimage.
