3 days ago
Oman's pilgrims complete entry into Saudi Arabia for haj
Muscat – The final group of pilgrims travelling from Oman to Saudi Arabia through the Rub al Khali border crossing entered the kingdom on Saturday, marking the end of this year's overland arrivals.
The Omani Haj Mission confirmed the entry of more than 5,000 pilgrims via the land route. Oman's total Haj quota this year includes 13,530 citizens and 470 expatriates, with allocations distributed across governorates based on the population of residents aged 18 and above.
Muscat received the highest allocation at 24 per cent, followed by North Batinah at 19 per cent. Musandam received less than one per cent.
Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, the Haj Mission began delivering scheduled services through its specialised teams. These include supervisory visits to pilgrims' accommodations to ensure they meet approved health and safety standards.
The mission stated that preparations for the Mina and Arafat camps are nearing completion. The camps, managed by a contracted company, are expected to be handed over within days following recent upgrades aimed at improving conditions for Omani pilgrims.
To support the journey inside Oman, the Royal Oman Police, in coordination with the Royal Army of Oman, the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority, and the Ibri Charity Team, established a service station along the route between Ibri and the border. The station offers emergency assistance, ambulance services, and other support to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims on their way to the holy sites.
