Ministry proposes 5-year gap for second Hajj pilgrimage

Islamic ministry is working to revise regulations to allow individuals to perform Hajj again only after a five-year interval.

Currently, Hajj pilgrimage arrangements in the Maldives prioritise the elderly and the sick, followed by a general order where others receive the opportunity without significant restrictions.

The proposed changes aim to prioritise individuals undertaking their obligatory Hajj for the first time. The proposed regulation would ensure that those who have already performed Hajj wait at least five years before being eligible again.

Islamic minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed shared the proposal on social media to seek public feedback. In his post, the minister highlighted that some countries have similar rules, ensuring priority for first-time pilgrims. He explained that the change is intended to provide more opportunities for new pilgrims.

The response to the proposal has been largely supportive. Commenters expressed agreement, with one stating, "It is better to arrange for people who have an obligatory Hajj to always come up at the top of the list."

Another remarked, "This is a change that should have been made long ago. Otherwise, those who have saved for Hajj remain at the bottom of the list while others who have gone before continue to go."

Shaheem emphasised the importance of the rule change and confirmed that he would consult with President Mohamed Muizzu before finalising the proposal.