The Maldivian Hajj Mission says the first batch of pilgrims performing this year's annual Hajj Pilgrimage will depart for Saudi Arabia tomorrow.
The Mission said 298 pilgrims will depart for Saudi Arabia tomorrow night.
It said three more flights have been scheduled to carry pilgrims to Saudi ahead of the Hajj Pilgrimage. The Mission noted a flight had been scheduled for next Monday and that it would carry another 353 pilgrims.
The final flight of pilgrims is set to depart on the 7th of June with 339 pilgrims. This would mean a total of 981 pilgrims would fly out on three days.
Today, the Islamic Ministry started collecting the luggage of the pilgrims departing for Saudi Arabia tomorrow night.
This year, Hajj Day, or the Day of Arafat falls on the 16th of June. Hajj Pilgrims are expected to take part in several rituals leading up to the day-long stay on Mount Arafat on the 9th day of Dhul Al-Hijja.
