110 pilgrims affected after Umrah trip called off

An Umrah group has cancelled a scheduled pilgrimage, citing safety concerns related to tensions in the Middle East.

The trip had been organised by Al-Abrar for 110 pilgrims. The cancellation led to protests outside the group’s office on Tuesday night, where individuals who had registered for the trip gathered to express concern over the decision.

According to the pilgrims, the cancellation was announced during an emergency meeting held by the organisers. Participants were informed that the group would not proceed with the trip because of uncertainty regarding the situation in the region during the coming weeks.

Some pilgrims alleged that the organisers had not completed financial arrangements for the trip. The group denied the allegation.

Each pilgrim had paid MVR 45,000 for the pilgrimage. Protesters called for a full refund of the amount. However, the group issued refunds after deducting MVR 15,000, stating that the deduction covered ticket costs.

Al-Abrar said payments had already been made for travel arrangements and that the refunds issued so far were supported by contributions from third parties.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has begun an inquiry into the matter. The ministry said the current situation in the region does not prevent Umrah pilgrimages.

The Maldives Hajj Corporation has also taken steps to assist some of the affected pilgrims. Managing Director Mohamed Shakeel said on X that visas and arrangements for accommodation, meals and transport in Makkah and Madinah had been secured for 28 pilgrims.

According to Shakeel, the group of 28 pilgrims departed for Umrah on Wednesday morning.