Latest news with #JadidatArar
Arab News
02-07-2025
- Politics
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia completes departure of Iranian pilgrims
RIYADH: The Ministry of Interior has completed departure procedures for Iranian Hajj pilgrims leaving through the Jadidat Arar border crossing in the Northern Borders region. This was done following directives from King Salman and based on a recommendation from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday. The aim was to support Iran's pilgrims amid the current circumstances in their country and provide necessary services until they can safely return home after completing Hajj. The ministry, through its sectors and affiliated entities, deployed all human and technical resources to facilitate the pilgrims' movement, the SPA reported. It coordinated with relevant authorities to ensure smooth and organized transport to the border within an integrated service and security framework. Alireza Bayat, head of the Hajj and Pilgrimage Organization in Iran, recently praised Saudi Arabia for assisting the pilgrims, noting the quality organization and services at border crossings and other locations. He said Iran's pilgrims were satisfied with the support they had received and for the excellent organization of the Hajj.
Asharq Al-Awsat
22-05-2025
- Asharq Al-Awsat
24,000 Iraqi Pilgrims Cross into Saudi Arabia via Jadidat Arar Border Crossing
The overland pilgrimage route through the Jadidat Arar crossing in northern Saudi Arabia has seen a steady and well-organized flow of Hajj pilgrims this season, with thousands of Iraqis arriving in staggered convoys since mid-May. The border post is also preparing to receive pilgrims from Syria, Jordan and Palestine in the coming days, according to local officials. Saadi Al-Shammari, deputy head of the Pilgrims and Umrah Services Association, told Asharq Al-Awsat that Iraqi pilgrims will continue arriving at the crossing until May 24. "A total of 24,432 pilgrims from Iraq are expected to cross through Jadidat Arar this year, spread across 509 convoys," Al-Shammari said, noting that the first group arrived on May 15. The first convoy of Iraqi pilgrims crossed into Saudi Arabia carrying 576 pilgrims, with daily arrivals continuing over the following ten days in varying numbers, a Saudi Hajj official said. On May 16 alone, 4,032 pilgrims arrived, followed by 3,360 on May 17, according to Al-Shammari. The final group of Iraqi pilgrims, numbering 1,776, is expected to enter on May 24. Al-Shammari said the land route has witnessed 'a high level of efficiency and coordination,' crediting security and service agencies for streamlining procedures and ensuring the safety of pilgrims upon their entry into the Kingdom. The Pilgrims and Umrah Services Association, which oversees all Hajj and Umrah operational services, has created a welcoming environment for the arriving guests, offering meals, drinks, and traditional Saudi hospitality while ensuring a smooth and orderly process of entry and departure. The association has taken on a central role in organizing and receiving Hajj convoys arriving through the Jadidat Arar border crossing. More than 500 male and female volunteers of all ages are taking part in receiving the pilgrims, as part of an initiative aimed at fostering a culture of giving and volunteerism among Saudi youth, and encouraging a sense of civic duty during the Hajj season.
