Saudi Arabia facilitates smooth departure of 2,700 Iranian pilgrims daily through coordinated air, ground operations

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MADINAH, Sunday, June 22, 2025 (WNP): Hundreds of Iranian pilgrims departed Madinah through Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport, making their way to Arar en route to Iran via the Jadidat Arar border crossing, as part of post-Hajj departure operations.

The pilgrims praised the Saudi government for facilitating a smooth and efficient travel experience, commending the comprehensive services provided during their stay in the Kingdom. Their journey was supported by organized ground and air transport services, with officials ensuring all logistics were in place.

Saudia Airlines, in cooperation with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, continues to operate special flights from the Hajj and Umrah Terminal Complex at King Abdulaziz International Airport (KAIA) in Jeddah. Daily, Saudia and its low-cost subsidiary Flyadeal are transporting approximately 2,700 Iranian pilgrims to Arar Airport. Additionally, arrangements are in progress to fly 1,200 pilgrims daily to Muscat, Oman.

Officials overseeing the operations ensured pilgrims received all necessary assistance and amenities. As a gesture of hospitality, souvenirs were also distributed among the travelers.

In the Northern Borders Region, Governor Prince Faisal bin Khalid bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz reviewed the ongoing efforts to facilitate the departure of Iranian pilgrims via the Jadidat Arar crossing. During a meeting at his office, the governor emphasized the importance of full coordination among all agencies to ensure the procedures are smooth, accurately executed, and in line with the directives of the Kingdom’s leadership.

“These efforts reflect the Kingdom’s unwavering commitment to serving the guests of Allah with excellence,” Prince Faisal stated, reaffirming the significance of maintaining high service standards through the final stages of the Hajj journey.

The operation marks another successful phase in the Kingdom’s extensive logistical planning for Hajj pilgrims, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a dedicated host and caretaker of one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings.