Hosting Gulf citizens stranded in Saudi Arabia by royal decree
In a humanitarian gesture that embodies the depth of fraternal ties between the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud - may God protect him - issued his generous directives approving the hosting of all citizens of the GCC countries stranded in the airports of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, based on what was presented by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
The royal directive included providing all necessary arrangements to ensure their complete hospitality, comfort, and comprehensive care, reflecting the Kingdom's position as the heart of the Arabian Gulf and its sense of responsibility towards its brothers and sisters. The royal decree emphasized the importance of facilitating their stay among their families and loved ones in their second home, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, until suitable conditions are in place for their safe, dignified, and honored return to their homelands.
General context: An unprecedented global crisis
This decision came amidst the exceptional circumstances the entire world experienced during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The sudden and widespread precautionary measures, such as border closures and the suspension of international flights, left thousands of travelers stranded worldwide. In the Gulf region, characterized by high and continuous inter-regional travel, many Gulf citizens found themselves stuck in Saudi and other airports, unable to return home due to flight cancellations and airspace closures.
The importance of the initiative and its regional impact
This initiative is of paramount importance on both humanitarian and diplomatic levels. On the humanitarian level, it provided an immediate and comfortable solution for citizens who found themselves in a difficult situation, alleviating their anxiety and that of their families. On the regional level, it sent a powerful message that Gulf solidarity is not merely a slogan, but a tangible reality demonstrated in times of hardship. This decision has reinforced the Kingdom's position as a leading nation in the region , one that does not hesitate to extend a helping hand to its brothers and sisters, affirming that the security and well-being of the citizens of the Gulf states is an integral part of the security and well-being of its own citizens.
The royal directive also reflected the Saudi leadership's swift response to emergencies, as it instructed all relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Health, and the General Authority of Civil Aviation, to take the necessary measures to implement the order immediately, ensuring the highest levels of service and care for the visiting brothers. This step is a testament to the deep historical, social, and cultural ties that bind the peoples of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
