The first 50 government-sponsored Hajj pilgrims have departed.

The Hajj pilgrims from Maldives, departed on their journey from Velana International Airport (VIA) on Thursday.

This came as part of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge to sponsor Hajj for 1,000 people below the poverty line within the next five years.

The President’s Office revealed that the departure of the initial group of 50 individuals embarking on this year’s Hajj pilgrimage, marks the beginning of this commitment.

Muizzu’s pledge to sponsor Hajj for 1,000 people below the poverty line within the next five years was made on 18 August 2023, during the presidential election campaign.

The pledge was made while speaking to the residential community of Mulah island in Meemu atoll.

Muizzu earlier announced the cabinet’s endorsement of executing the pledge for the first Hajj season during his presidential term.

The announcement was made by the president during a meeting with the press, following the cabinet meeting that was held on 5 December 2023, which was three weeks since Muizzu assumed office.