Vice President Faisal Naseem has left to Mecca, Saudi Arabia to perform this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.

VP Naseem departed from Velana International Airport (VIA) some time after sundown on Thursday.

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih appointed the Vice President as the Amir-al-Hajj for 2023.

As the Amir al-Hajj, VP Naseem is tasked with ensuring the smooth and safe operation of pilgrimage of Maldivian pilgrims, including their travel and stay in Saudi Arabia.

The government made special transport arrangements to the airport for the Hajj pilgrims as well as their families from Malé, Hulhumalé and Villingili, as the administration accords a high priority to the secure and smooth conduct of the Hajj pilgrimage. Hence all necessary actions are taken to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims.

The first batch of Maldivian pilgrims performing Hajj pilgrimage this year, departed on June 12. They were seen off at VIA by VP Naseem.

More groups departed on June 13, 15 and 16.

The last batch of Maldivian pilgrims performing Hajj pilgrimage this year, departed on June 19. The final group was seen off at VIA by President Solih.

Maldives was allocated a quota of 1,000 pilgrims this year.

The opportunity to send pilgrims for Hajj pilgrimage this year 1444 was given to three private companies alongside Maldives Hajj Corporation.