Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt coordinates safe homecoming for overland hajj pilgrims
Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities has emphasized its commitment to the safe and smooth return of all Egyptian pilgrims who traveled to Saudi Arabia for Hajj, particularly those who took part in the overland (by bus) pilgrimage program.
This assurance comes amid ongoing regional tensions which could potentially impact travel, according to a statement by the Ministry.
Mr. Sherif Fathy, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, has instructed the official Egyptian Hajj mission, currently in Saudi Arabia, to work quickly to finalize the return arrangements for pilgrims who traveled by land and to urge travel companies to expedite their efforts in bringing pilgrims home safely.
Special coordination teams have been working closely with authorities in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt to facilitate the journey. This includes ensuring smooth passage through the Saudi-Jordanian border at Halat Ammar, transit through Jordan’s Aqaba port, and arrival at Nuweiba port in Egypt.
Minister Fathy highlighted that the safe, comfortable, and efficient return of pilgrims is just as important as the well-organized departure and services provided during Hajj, noting that a successful pilgrimage season is measured by both excellent service and ensuring all pilgrims return home safely.
Ms. Samia Sami, Head of the Official Hajj Mission, explained that a 24-hour operations room has been established to monitor the movement of buses from Saudi Arabia until they reach Egypt and to immediately resolve any issues along the way.
Return journeys for overland pilgrims began on June 11. As of today, 127 buses have already left Saudi Arabia carrying approximately 4,800 pilgrims, with 108 buses—carrying 4,100 pilgrims—safely arriving in Egypt. This represents about 55% of the total 7,500 overland pilgrims this season. The remaining 53 buses are expected to arrive in the coming days, successfully completing the return of all Egyptian overland Hajj pilgrims.