The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques directs the hosting of Gulf citizens stranded at airports

The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, issued a generous directive to host citizens of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries who were stranded at Saudi ports and airports, in a humanitarian gesture reflecting the deep fraternal ties that bind the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to its brothers in the Gulf countries.

This generous royal directive comes within the framework of the Saudi leadership’s concern for the safety and comfort of the Gulf brothers, as the order included providing all means of care and attention to them, providing suitable accommodation and securing their living and health needs, until they are able to leave to their countries safely, or until air traffic returns to normal in light of the exceptional circumstances that may impose restrictions on travel and movement between countries.

General context: Crisis management and regional responsibility

This step comes as part of Saudi Arabia's response to emerging challenges affecting global and regional travel. Emergency situations, such as flight suspensions due to health or precautionary measures, often leave travelers stranded. Here, the Kingdom's leading role in addressing such situations is evident. Its directives went beyond simply allowing stranded travelers to remain; they extended to providing "full hospitality," meaning the state would cover all expenses and logistical arrangements, thus reinforcing the concept of "the Kingdom of Humanity.".

The depth of Gulf relations and shared destiny

This royal directive reflects the strength of the historical and fraternal ties that bind the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, and reaffirms the principle of “Our Gulf is One” and their shared destiny. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as the elder sister and strategic depth of the Gulf states, has always stood by the citizens of the GCC countries in various circumstances and crises. Such stances are not unusual for the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, who places special importance on strengthening Gulf unity and safeguarding the interests of the region's people.

Importance and expected impact

This decision has multiple positive dimensions that go beyond the immediate humanitarian aspect:

• On the social level: It instills reassurance in the hearts of Gulf families whose sons may be stranded, assuring them that they are in their second home and among their family.
• On the political and diplomatic level: This position strengthens the bonds of cooperation and continuous coordination between the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, and provides a model to be emulated in international solidarity during times of crisis.
• On the humanitarian level: It reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a country that sponsors humanitarian work, where those stranded are treated as honored guests and not merely as stranded travelers.

In conclusion, this directive remains a new testament to the Kingdom’s firm and unwavering stances towards its brothers, and the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ constant concern for understanding the needs of citizens and Gulf nationals alike, and providing them with the highest levels of protection and care in all circumstances.