New Arar border crossing receives the first groups of Iraqi pilgrims for the Hajj season
As part of intensive preparations for the Hajj season, the New Arar border crossing in the Northern Borders region received the first group of pilgrims arriving from the sisterly Republic of Iraq on Sunday to perform Hajj this year. This step reflects the high level of readiness of the land border crossings in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to receive the pilgrims and provide them with all necessary facilities from the moment they arrive in the Kingdom.
Integrated efforts through the new Arar border crossing to serve the pilgrims
The reception of pilgrims and the completion of their entry procedures proceeded smoothly and efficiently, thanks to the close and continuous oversight of His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Khalid bin Sultan bin Abdulaziz, Governor of the Northern Borders Region. The integrated services provided by the various government agencies operating at the New Arar border crossing were evident, directly contributing to the smooth flow of traffic, the swift completion of customs and passport procedures, and the provision of a comfortable environment for pilgrims after their long overland journey.
The historical bridge of communication between the Kingdom and Iraq
This border crossing is of paramount importance, far exceeding its function as a mere transit point; it is a vital and historic artery connecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Iraq. For decades, this land route has been the preferred path for hundreds of thousands of Iraqi pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah. The official reopening of the crossing in late 2020, after years of closure, was a major strategic step that embodied the deep fraternal and historical ties between the two brotherly nations and revived trade, cultural, and social exchange between their peoples, greatly facilitating the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages for Iraqi citizens.
Strategic and economic dimensions of receiving pilgrims by land
The influx of pilgrims through land border crossings has far-reaching positive effects. Locally, the increased activity at these crossings revitalizes the economy of the Northern Borders region, creates seasonal job opportunities, and enhances the area's infrastructure and services. Regionally, the successful management of the Hajj pilgrimage strengthens Saudi-Iraqi relations and underscores the joint security and organizational cooperation between the two countries. Internationally, the Kingdom continues to demonstrate its exceptional ability to manage massive crowds and secure its border crossings according to the highest international standards, reflecting its distinguished image as the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors.
A comprehensive service system to ensure the comfort of pilgrims
All relevant authorities are dedicating their human and logistical resources to serving the pilgrims. These efforts include providing comprehensive healthcare through medical centers equipped with the latest technologies to handle any emergencies, along with security services to ensure the safety of the pilgrims, and organizational services to guide and direct arrivals. Furthermore, significant support is provided through the transportation and logistics system, guaranteeing the comfort of pilgrims from their arrival until their safe and peaceful journey to the holy sites in Mecca and Medina. All of this is in accordance with the directives of the wise leadership – may God support them – which places serving the pilgrims at the forefront of its priorities, and in line with the objectives of the Guests of God Service Program, one of the programs of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to enrich the experience of pilgrims and provide them with the highest levels of service.
