Two of the Maldivian pilgrims who are in Mecca, Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage are reported to be in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

This was revealed by State Minister for Islamic Affairs Mohamed Anil, who is currently in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Speaking to media, Anil stated that although the two Maldivians are seeking treatment in intensive care, efforts were made to allow them to spend time in Arafat.

As such, highlighting that the Saudi government offers to transfer Hajj pilgrims to Arafat even on oxygen, Anil said that they were ready to take the pilgrims if that is what is required.

The state minister noted that the two Maldivian pilgrims in ICU are two elderlies.

Stressing that Maldivians traveling for Hajj pilgrimage are usually well, Anil stated that apart from the two elderly pilgrims seeking intensive care treatment, the remaining pilgrims reached Arafat on time.

He went on to cite the Saudi government advising pilgrims to use umbrellas and take fluids often, due to the heat in Arafat.

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.

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.

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