Yemen and Saudi Arabia Sign Hajj Arrangements Agreement for 1448 AH

Yemen and Saudi Arabia have officially signed an agreement outlining the arrangements and procedures for the 1448 AH Hajj season, while simultaneously discussing exceptional measures to facilitate the pilgrimage for Yemeni citizens.

The agreement was formalized in Jeddah on the sidelines of the sixth edition of the Hajj and Umrah Services Conference and Exhibition. The document was signed by the Yemeni Minister of Endowments and Guidance, Sheikh Turki bin Abdullah Al-Wadaei, and the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, in the presence of the Yemeni Undersecretary for Hajj and Umrah, Aref Al-Yafei.

During the meetings, the delegations addressed various challenges regarding the registration process and financial obligations for Yemeni pilgrims, taking into account the country's current volatile circumstances. Discussions also focused on advancing the digital and regulatory frameworks necessary for the issuance of Hajj and Umrah visas.

Minister Al-Wadaei proposed increasing the operational capacity of the Al-Wadea land border crossing or opening an additional transit point. This initiative aims to reduce congestion during peak periods, ensuring a smoother and more efficient passage for pilgrims traveling to the holy sites.

Both ministers underscored the importance of continued bilateral coordination to enhance services and resolve logistical hurdles. Minister Al-Wadaei expressed gratitude for the ongoing support and care provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, while Minister Al-Rabiah commended the Yemeni Ministry of Endowments and the Hajj mission for their diligent efforts in organizing the pilgrimage and improving the quality of services provided to Yemeni nationals.