The high-level meeting comes as 22,500 Syrian pilgrims began their spiritual journey on the first official day of the Hajj pilgrimage, which will conclude on June 9.

Minister Shukri praised the Kingdom’s meticulous organization, healthcare services, and logistical support, calling Saudi Arabia’s efforts “a model of care and dedication.” He highlighted the importance of continued bilateral cooperation to ensure a smooth and spiritually enriching experience for all pilgrims.

He also reaffirmed the commitment of Syrian pilgrims to abide by Saudi guidelines and regulations, acknowledging the Kingdom’s central role in maintaining the sanctity, safety, and smooth flow of Hajj rituals.

Minister Shukri conveyed the greetings of Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa to the Saudi leadership. President Al-Sharaa had earlier addressed Syrian pilgrims in Makkah via video call, urging them to act as “ambassadors of Syria” by demonstrating exemplary conduct during their pilgrimage.

For his part, Dr. Al-Rabiah expressed appreciation for the cooperation and discipline shown by Syrian pilgrims, and extended the Kingdom’s well-wishes for peace and stability in Syria, according to the official Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA).

The meeting underscores the growing coordination between Damascus and Riyadh in the realm of religious affairs, particularly as the Kingdom continues to extend equal and dignified treatment to pilgrims of all nationalities, fostering unity through faith.

Speaking at the official launch of the initiative at Velana International Airport, President Muizzu expressed deep appreciation for the Kingdom’s efforts in facilitating a seamless Hajj experience for Maldivian pilgrims for the very first time. The Makkah Route Initiative, part of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Guests Program, allows pilgrims to complete all pre-departure immigration, customs, and health procedures from their home country.

“This initiative is a true manifestation of Saudi Arabia’s leadership in serving Islam and Muslims,” Muizzu said. “Their leadership of the Islamic world represents an exemplary model of giving, unity, and service—not only at the two Holy Mosques but across the entire Islamic world.”

President Muizzu emphasized the significance of the moment for Maldivian pilgrims who, under the initiative, will now travel with greater ease and spiritual focus.

A Strategic Vision Rooted in Service

The Makkah Route Initiative, launched under the framework of Saudi Vision 2030, exemplifies the Kingdom’s strategic commitment to streamlining the pilgrimage experience. Pilgrims departing from participating countries benefit from a one-stop process that handles visa issuance, biometric data collection, customs clearance, and health screenings before departure—effectively eliminating the need for long immigration queues upon arrival in the Kingdom.

“This pioneering initiative, generously offered by Saudi Arabia under the wise leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, reinforces the Kingdom’s central role in promoting unity and cooperation within the Islamic world,” President Muizzu added.

He also expressed gratitude to the Saudi ministries of Interior, Hajj and Umrah, and all relevant authorities and organizations that contributed to implementing the initiative in the Maldives.

Global Expansion and Islamic Solidarity

The Maldives is now among eight countries included in the Makkah Route Initiative. The program is already operational in Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Turkiye, Morocco, and the Ivory Coast. Its success has been widely acknowledged for enhancing the quality of services offered to pilgrims and reinforcing the Kingdom’s role as a leading spiritual and logistical hub for Hajj.

By ensuring a dignified and well-organized journey for the guests of Allah, the initiative underscores Saudi Arabia’s longstanding mission of serving pilgrims with compassion, precision, and innovation.

“We renew our great gratitude and appreciation for the leadership and people of Saudi Arabia,” Muizzu said. “We look forward to strengthening cooperation and joint action under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince for the betterment of the entire Islamic ummah.”

The Makkah Route Initiative stands as a hallmark of Saudi Arabia’s evolving approach to Hajj logistics—combining tradition, technology, and diplomacy. As it continues to expand, the initiative not only eases the pilgrimage journey but also embodies the Kingdom’s commitment to uniting and serving Muslims worldwide through thoughtful leadership and vision.