The first batch of Hajj pilgrims departed for Saudi Arabia on Friday.

Hajj Corporation is solely responsible for the 1,000 Hajj pilgrims traveling from Maldives this year.

While 980 pilgrims are departing for Hajj from Maldives, today's first batch to depart included 298 pilgrims. An additional 353 pilgrims are scheduled to depart on Monday and the remaining 339 pilgrims on 7 June.

The pilgrims will be flying on Saudi Air, Saudi's national airline.

Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef and Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed were present at the airport to see off the first batch of pilgrims today.

The advance team from the Hajj Mission in charge of the pilgrims departed to Saudi last week.

Islamic Ministry's Deputy Minister Ali Ahsan had previously 'One' that the Ministry is hopeful for additional quota for Hajj pilgrims and that the Ministry is hoping for a confirmation this week.