Yemen, Saudi Arabia Sign Hajj Agreement, Discuss Pilgrim Facilitations

Yemen and Saudi Arabia have signed an agreement outlining arrangements for the 1448 Hijri Hajj season, coinciding with discussions on exceptional facilitations for Yemeni pilgrims. These measures include easing registration requirements, financial payments, and expanding the capacity of land ports to prevent congestion during the pilgrimage.

The agreement was signed by the Minister of Endowments and Guidance in the internationally recognized Yemeni government, Sheikh Turki bin Abdullah Al-Wadaei, and the Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah. The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of the 6th edition of the Hajj and Umrah Exhibition in Jeddah, with the presence of the Undersecretary of the Yemeni Hajj and Umrah Sector, Arif Al-Yafi'i.

Both sides addressed the challenges hindering the completion of registration procedures for Yemeni pilgrims and the settlement of financial obligations, considering the exceptional circumstances the country is experiencing. Discussions also covered the enhancement of organizational and digital procedures for issuing Hajj and Umrah visas.

The Yemeni Minister proposed increasing the capacity of the Al-Wadea land port or opening an additional port. This initiative aims to facilitate the passage of pilgrims and reduce crowding during peak periods, ensuring a smooth transit to the holy sites.

The ministers emphasized the importance of continued coordination between the two sides to improve services for pilgrims and address organizational and logistical challenges. Minister Al-Wadaei acknowledged the facilitations and care provided by Saudi Arabia to Yemeni pilgrims, while Minister Al-Rabiah commended the efforts of the Ministry of Endowments and the Yemeni mission in organizing pilgrim affairs and enhancing the services offered to them.