The First Couple of Maldives has departed for the Hajj pilgrimage.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and First Lady Fazna Ahmed departed for Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform the Hajj pilgrimage, on Monday morning.

They are travelling to Saudi Arabia on an unofficial visit.

Hajj Day of this year falls on June 08, 2022. Maldives was granted a quota of 453 Maldivian pilgrims this year.

With only Maldives Hajj Corporation being granted the opportunity to send pilgrims for the hajj pilgrimage this year, it opened applications for 100 out of the 453 spots, in late May. The application window was opened through June 2, and forms were accepted at the meeting hall of the Islamic Center.

The remaining spots were reserved for applicants waitlisted with the corporation.

The price for the hajj pilgrimage this year through Maldives Hajj Corporation has been set at MVR 76,960.

President Solih, bade farewell to the last batch of Hajj pilgrims travelling to Makkah, Saudi Arabia, to perform the Hajj pilgrimage this year, on Saturday evening, at the Velana International Airport.

Speaking with the intending pilgrims, the President advised them to follow the instructions of the officials accompanying them to avoid any incidents. The President also assured them that the administration would keep a close eye on their situation during their pilgrimage, wishing them a "Mabroor Hajj" and a safe journey.