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.
