28 of the pilgrims who were set to fly to Umrah last night with the help of Al Abrar Pvt Ltd Maldives but had their flights canceled have had their flights arranged by Hajj Corporation, as was told today by Hajj Corporation's Managing Director Hamdhan Shakeel.
110 pilgrims were unable to travel to Umrah after Al Abrar Pvt Ltd Maldives had made the necessary arrangements for last night, with the case coming to light shortly after. A group of people had gathered outside the company's office and expressed their concerns.
As per Hamdhan's post on X, Al Abrar Pvt Ltd Maldives had received funds from pilgrims with the promise of travel to Umrah this Ramadan, with arrangements having failed to be made after the fact.
He stated that upon the request of the pilgrims, the Hajj Corporation was able to accommodate 28 of them.
He also stated that the 28 pilgrims are currently on their way to Jeddah.
As per the group of people, they were told to transport their luggage on the day of the flight before the flight itself. However, a person who had made the payment for the service stated that they were informed otherwise while they were on the way to the airport.
As per the individual, after they were told of this, the company held a sudden meeting. The pilgrims were told that the Umrah flight was canceled, the reason being the ongoing war in the Middle East, with an uncertainty of what would happen after 26th March as well. The individuals allege that permission had been granted to take the pilgrims to Umrah, along with confirmation of payment for the visas and hotel.
A number of people gathered in front of the office, requesting they be refunded. Efforts were made to fully refund the pilgrims, except for the airline tickets.
As per the Economic Ministry's business registration portal, the Al Abrar Pvt Ltd Maldives company has three shareholders. They are Ahmed Affan Shafy, Adam Binyamin and Yoosuf Sidgee.
