In a bid to facilitate easier access to foreign currency for locals planning to travel to Saudi Arabia for Umrah during the upcoming Ramadan, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced an increase in the dollar limit for pilgrims.

The new policy, announced via a post on X, will allow each Umrah traveller to access an additional USD 1,500, on top of the existing dollar limit for those using Bank of Maldives debit cards. The President stated that the change aims to provide a more convenient way for pilgrims to obtain dollars at the official bank exchange rate.

With a significant number of Maldivians typically travelling for Umrah during the holy month of Ramadan, this move is expected to ease the financial burden on those wishing to perform the pilgrimage. The Bank of Maldives and the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) have been instructed to implement the increased limit, ensuring that pilgrims can prepare for their journey with greater ease.