The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has temporarily suspended the permit granted to Al-Abrar Hajj and Umrah Group for organizing Umrah pilgrimages.

The Ministry took this action following complaints that the group’s scheduled Ramadan Umrah trip, which was set to take place from March 3rd to 26th, was cancelled just as pilgrims were making final preparations to depart for Saudi Arabia. Upon receiving these reports, the Ministry has been clarifying all relevant details regarding the matter.

Based on the information obtained by the Ministry so far, Al-Abrar Hajj and Umrah Group has violated the established regulations concerning the designated dates for taking people on Umrah pilgrimages.

"Consequently, the license issued to this company to take people from the Maldives for Umrah has been temporarily suspended, and the company has been formally notified of this decision," the Ministry stated.

The Ministry further added that after conducting a thorough review of the case and gathering additional necessary information, further disciplinary measures will be taken against the company in accordance with the regulations.

Regarding the pilgrims who were unable to depart, the Ministry stated that it is currently exploring ways to provide assistance and facilitate their journey.

In this regard, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs and the Maldives Hajj Corporation are working to arrange a charter flight to ensure the departure of the stranded pilgrims, under the direct instructions of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.