8,000 Yemeni Pilgrims Depart from Sana'a International Airport for Hajj

Around 8,000 Yemeni pilgrims are set to begin their trip to perform Hajj rituals this year, departing from Sana'a International Airport. This marks a significant step in facilitating the pilgrimage for Yemeni citizens amid ongoing challenges in the region.

On May 29, 2024, Sana'a International Airport saw the departure of 637 pilgrims heading to the Holy Land. These pilgrims were transported on three flights operated by Yemen Airways, with 233 pilgrims on the first flight, 153 on the second, and 251 on the third.

Why this matters: The facilitation of Hajj pilgrims from Yemen has significant implications for regional stability and cooperation, particularly given the ongoing conflict in Yemen. The success of this effort could lead to increased cooperation between Yemen and Saudi Arabia, and potentially pave the way for further diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict.

Several departing pilgrims expressed their satisfaction with the streamlined travel procedures and courteous treatment received from airport staff. They praised Sana'a International Airport, being the first in the republic, the closest to most governorates, and the first gateway to the world.

The Saudi government has played a vital role in simplifying the travel process for Yemeni pilgrims. The Kingdom's General Directorate of Passports has equipped all international border crossings with advanced technology and trained staff proficient in various languages spoken by the pilgrims.

The Makkah Route Initiative, launched in 2019, has been instrumental in facilitating Hajj pilgrims from seven countries, including Yemen. This program handles visa, customs, and passport requirements electronically, ensuring that pilgrims have a smooth travel experience.

Yemenia Airways, Yemen's national airline, has resumed direct flights from Houthi-controlled Sana'a to Saudi Arabia after an eight-year hiatus. These flights will connect Sana'a with Jeddah and Madinah, significantly easing the travel burden for Yemeni pilgrims.

The Yemeni government has already facilitated the travel of 30,000 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia, mostly through the Wadea border, with about 2,600 traveling by plane. This effort highlights the commitment to ensuring that Yemeni citizens can perform their religious duties despite the ongoing conflict.

The resumption of flights is part of a UN-brokered truce that went into effect last year, allowing Yemenia to operate commercial flights from Sana'a and permitting more fuel ships to enter Hodeidah port. This truce aims to alleviate some of the hardships faced by Yemeni citizens.

As Yemeni pilgrims continue to depart for Hajj, the collaborative efforts between Yemen and Saudi Arabia highlight the importance of international cooperation in ensuring the well-being of pilgrims. The streamlined processes and resumed flights are significant steps towards easing the travel for thousands of Yemeni citizens.

Key Takeaways

• 8,000 Yemeni pilgrims to perform Hajj rituals this year, departing from Sana'a International Airport.
• 637 pilgrims departed on May 29, 2024, on three Yemen Airways flights.
• Saudi government simplified travel process for Yemeni pilgrims with advanced technology and trained staff.
• Makkah Route Initiative and Yemenia Airways' direct flights eased travel burden for Yemeni pilgrims.
• Collaborative efforts between Yemen and Saudi Arabia ensured smooth travel for thousands of pilgrims.