Ministry of Foreign Affairs has released the set of guidelines to be followed by Maldivians going to Saudi Arabia on pilgrimage.
Discussions have been held between the Maldives and Saudi Arabia on facilitating means for Maldivian pilgrims to travel to Saudi Arabia amid the restrictions imposed due to COVID-19. Following the discussions, a set of guidelines have been prepared for Maldivians travelling to Saudi Arabia.
The guideline states Maldivians can enter Saudi Arabia after presenting a negative PCR test conducted within 72 hours before arrival from a licensed laboratory in the Maldives. The pilgrim must hold an airline reservation which matches the permitted travel programme and must undergo quarantine in the booked hotel for 3 days.
The guideline further states only pilgrims between the age of 18 and 50 will be permitted. Pilgrims must travel under a licensed group or company taking pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.
Ministry of Islamic Affairs has issued permission to 37 companies to take pilgrims to Saudi Arabia. Due to closing of Saudi borders, the ministry has extended the duration of the permit issued to companies by one year from the date of expiry of the permit.