Six companies along with Hajj Corporation has been permitted to carry out Hajj pilgrimage arrangements for Maldivians.

This was announced during a press conference held by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. The six companies that have been permitted are:

- Thazkiyah Private Limited

- Zaeema Group Private Limited

- Mina Hajj Umra Private Limited

- Ecro Private Limited

- Al Haramain Hajj & Umrah Maldives Private Limited

The Ministry noted that these six companies were permitted after a five member committee had reviewed 12 out of the 18 proposals that were submitted. Six proposals were disqualified for failing to submit all relevant documents.

They added that from the 1,000 quota that the Maldives had received this year, they have distributed it equally among these companies so each company would receive 90. While Hajj Corporation receives 550, works are underway to secure 1,000 more slots.

A guideline has also been compiled for companies, and strict penalties are to be put in place should they fail to obey the regulations.