According to the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs, a total of 3,500 individuals have been granted permission to undertake the pilgrimage this year. The initial group, comprising 325 pilgrims, left the country today amid a solemn and spiritually significant atmosphere.
A formal send-off ceremony was held at the airport, attended by several distinguished figures. Among those present were Deputy Speaker Rizwi Salley, Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Sri Lanka Khalid bin Hamoud Al-Kahtani, the Chairman of the Hajj Committee, and senior officials from the Department of Muslim Religious and Cultural Affairs.
Addressing the gathering, officials extended their well wishes to the departing pilgrims, emphasizing the importance of the Hajj as one of the five pillars of Islam and a deeply meaningful spiritual obligation for Muslims worldwide.
The remaining groups of pilgrims are expected to depart in phases over the coming days, as arrangements continue to facilitate a smooth and organized pilgrimage process.
Hajj, which takes place annually in the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, draws millions of Muslims from across the globe. Sri Lanka’s participation reflects the country’s rich religious diversity and the enduring devotion of its Muslim community.
