VP Faisal appointed as Amir al-Hajj for 2023

Vice President Faisal Naseem speaks at the inaugural session of the Criminal Justice Sector High-Level Conference on May 17, 2023. (Photo/President's Office)

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has appointed Vice President Faisal Naseem as the Amir al-Hajj for this year.

His appointment was announced by the President’s Office in a statement on Sunday.

As the Amir al-Hajj, Faisal will ensure the smooth and safe operation of the Maldivian pilgrims travelling to Saudi Arabia.

Maldivian pilgrims are set to begin travelling to Saudi Arabia for the annual hajj pilgrimage on Monday.

The first group to depart will be 296 pilgrims under the charge of the Maldives Hajj Corporation.

More will depart later this week.

Maldives received a quota of 1,000 pilgrims for this year’s hajj pilgrimage. In addition to Maldives Hajj Corporation, three private companies received 90 spots each to take pilgrims on hajj.

President’s Office said the government accords high priority to the secure and smooth conduct of the hajj pilgrimage, and will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety and well-being of pilgrims.