Maldives Hajj Corporation Limited (MHCL) has announced the price of Ramadan Umrah packages has risen, whilst announcing the opening of applications for the Ramadan Umrah Pilgrimage.

Reportedly, the package covering the entirety of the month of Ramadan is priced at MVR 55,965, showcasing a significant increase of 7,000 from the previous price of the package for the previous Ramadan, formerly priced at MVR 48,965.

Moreover, the Umrah package catering to those who have a preference for the last 15 days of Ramadan, faces an increase of MVR 5,000 as the price is MVR 50,965, where the price had previously been MVR 45,965.

Publicized information by the Hajj Corporation also shows the prices listed during different times of the year, specifically in July, September, and November are at MVR 30,965, whereas the prices listed for the December Umrah pilgrimage is at MVR 31,965. 

The corporation has not made a statement regarding why the decision to increase prices was incorporated, but assumption lies on the increase in international airfare, accommodation, and general services costs have risen, one of the reasons being due to the conflict in the Middle East. 

The Maldives Hajj corporation is responsible for facilitating affordable Hajj and Umrah services for Maldivian citizens, whilst ensuring quality standards are being upheld in accommodation, meals, and translation throughout Mecca and Medina.

Due to the announcement regarding the increase in prices, the corporation has faced public criticism, with concerns spreading amongst social media platforms.