28-05-2025
Nearly 2,700 pilgrims cross Rub al Khali border for haj from Oman
Muscat – The Rub al Khali border crossing between Oman and Saudi Arabia has seen the passage of 80 buses carrying 2,696 pilgrims travelling to perform haj in the last few days. The movement is part of coordinated efforts by authorities to streamline the grouping and departure process.
Officials said the arrangements reflect the efficiency of coordination between entities such as the Royal Oman Police and the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, aimed at easing travel procedures and reducing waiting times at the border. The measures were designed to ensure smooth transit for pilgrims arriving from different governorates.
Ibrahim bin Mubarak al Harthi of the Endowments and Religious Affairs Department in Dhahirah said the grouping of pilgrims is being conducted in two phases. The first focuses on compliance with requirements issued by the Omani Haj Mission and its Saudi counterpart, while the second deals with passport verification and entry permits to Saudi Arabia.
Several pilgrims expressed satisfaction with the arrangements at the crossing, citing the swift processing and organised procedures by the authorities.
To support the journey, the Royal Oman Police, in cooperation with the Royal Army of Oman, the Civil Defence and Ambulance Authority, and the Ibri Charity Team, set up a service station along the route between Ibri and the border. The station provides assistance, emergency response, and ambulance services to ensure the safety and comfort of pilgrims.
