Video: Pilgrims on horseback arrive from Europe to perform Hajj in Saudi Arabia

Dubai: In an age of high-speed travel and digital visas, four pilgrims have taken an extraordinary path—riding horseback from Europe to Saudi Arabia to perform the Hajj pilgrimage.

The group, consisting of three Spanish nationals and one Moroccan citizen, arrived this week at the Al Hadithah border crossing in the northern Al Qurayyat region. They were warmly welcomed by local officials and volunteers, moved by the riders’ devotion and determination.

A widely shared video captures their arrival: dusty, tired, but resolute after weeks on horseback en route to Islam’s holy sites.

Mamdouh Al Mutairi, head of the Al Hadithah center, personally greeted the pilgrims, offering heartfelt wishes for a safe and accepted Hajj. He praised the journey as a powerful symbol of faith and endurance.

Border officials and support staff provided medical checkups, refreshments, and guidance, as part of broader government efforts to offer dignified, efficient service to all pilgrims.

In addition to the official reception, the local Development Association of Al Hadithah hosted a small celebration for the riders, with volunteers presenting flowers, hospitality kits, and warm welcomes.

Government and civic institutions at the Al Hadithah crossing and in Al Qurayyat are working together under a comprehensive Hajj readiness plan.

The arrival of these horseback pilgrims coincides with the early waves of Hajj participants now entering Saudi Arabia through land, sea, and air. At Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport, similar scenes of organized hospitality greeted the first arrivals.