Saudi Arabia welcomes first group of Indian pilgrims in Medina

Dubai: The first group of Indian pilgrims arriving for Hajj 2025 was warmly welcomed at Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina today as Saudi Arabia begins implementing a comprehensive logistical and service framework to accommodate millions of worshippers arriving for the annual pilgrimage.

A total of 262 Indian pilgrims arriving from Hyderabad aboard Saudia Airlines were greeted with flowers, commemorative gifts, and an atmosphere of warmth and hospitality.

Senior officials were on hand to receive the group, including Dr Abdulaziz Wazzan, Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah for Visit Affairs, and Dr. Suhel Ajaz Khan, India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, alongside representatives of various government agencies.

Airport procedures were completed smoothly and efficiently thanks to the integrated coordination between service agencies operating at the facility.

This marks the beginning of the seasonal influx through Medina’s airport. Saudi Arabia stressed that all operational plans have been activated to manage the growing number of pilgrims expected over the coming days.

These plans include full-scale readiness in healthcare, logistics, guidance, and hospitality services, part of a broader national effort to ensure that pilgrims perform their religious rites with ease, safety, and dignity.

Separately, the Ministry of Interior announced that beginning today, Tuesday, April 29 (1 Dhul Qi’dah), entry to the holy city of Mecca is prohibited for all non-Hajj visa holders.

Authorities also warned visitors against penalties for overstaying visas. Individuals who remain in the Kingdom beyond the expiration of their entry permit may face fines of up to SAR 50,000, imprisonment for up to six months, and deportation.