Islamic Ministry working with Hajj Corporation to bring home 50 stranded pilgrims

Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed speaks at a press conference at the President’s Office, where a special Cabinet committee briefed the media on national issues arising from the Middle East conflict, March 12, 2026. (Photo/President's Office)

Approximately 50 Maldivian pilgrims are currently stranded abroad after their return flight was cancelled due to rising regional instability in the Middle East. Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed confirmed that the government has mobilized the Maldives Hajj Corporation to secure alternative travel arrangements. While over 2,000 Maldivians are currently performing Umrah in the region, authorities report that all other citizens remain safe and in good condition. The Ministry is actively managing the logistics to ensure the swift and secure repatriation of the affected group.

Regional conflict caused the cancellation of flights for 50 Maldivian pilgrims
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs is leading the repatriation effort in collaboration with the Hajj Corporation
Current status of over 2,000 other Maldivian pilgrims in the region is confirmed as safe
Alternative travel arrangements are being finalized for those affected by the airline suspensions

Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed said on Thursday that around 50 Maldivian pilgrims have been unable to return home from their Umrah trip after a connecting flight from a partner Arab country was cancelled amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Speaking at a press briefing held by the Special Ministerial Committee formed by the President to address public concerns, Shaheem said more than 2,000 Maldivians are currently performing Umrah and all are in good condition.

According to the minister, the group of 50 pilgrims was stranded after their airline cancelled operations due to regional instability. He said the Islamic Ministry, in coordination with Maldives Hajj Corporation, is now arranging their return.

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“About 50 pilgrims were unable to depart for Maldives due to the cancellation of a friendly nation’s airline. They are facing difficulties returning, and the Maldives Hajj Corporation has now begun working with us to bring them back,” Shaheem said.

He added that some outbound flights carrying Maldivian Umrah pilgrims had also been cancelled due to the conflict. The ministry has since made alternative arrangements to ensure all affected pilgrims were able to travel for their pilgrimage.

By Azhaar Abdul Azeez

Writer