Iranian Hajj pilgrims stranded in Saudi Arabia begin return home
A group of Iranian Hajj pilgrims who have been stranded in Saudi Arabia after Iran's airspace was closed began departing the Kingdom in batches under a joint air-and-land travel program, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Sunday.
'The first group of Iranian pilgrims arrived today at Arar Airport, as part of ongoing efforts led by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in coordination with relevant authorities, to facilitate the safe and dignified return of Iranian pilgrims,' the news agency said.
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The initiative comes as part of directives by Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to ensure Iranian Hajj pilgrims are 'provided with comprehensive services and care until they return safely to their homeland and families,' the report added.
The first group of Iranian pilgrims arrived today at Arar Airport where they were received by officials from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and partner agencies, who coordinated logistical support for their departure via the Jadidat Arar Border Crossing to Iran.
Ministry field teams began immediate operations to streamline the pilgrims' transfer, implementing a comprehensive joint plan with the Iranian side to ensure a smooth, dignified, and prompt departure, in line with the requests of the Iranian official mission.
The first batch of pilgrims departed on Sunday as part of the phased implementation of the ministry's return plan, according to SPA.
A dedicated operations room closely monitored the process, ensuring all necessary services and support were provided up to the moment of departure.
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