390 Russian pilgrims were received in Al-Bathaa as part of the Hajj 1445 AH efforts
Integrated efforts to serve the pilgrims during the Hajj season of 1445 AH
In a welcoming atmosphere reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's utmost care for pilgrims, the Eastern Province branch of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance received over 390 pilgrims arriving from the Russian Federation via the Al-Batha land border crossing. This reception is part of the operational plan prepared by the Ministry for the 1445 AH Hajj season, which aims to utilize all available resources to serve pilgrims from the moment they arrive in the Kingdom until their departure.
The port was staffed by ministry personnel and volunteers who welcomed the pilgrims, distributing gifts and informational brochures translated into several languages, including Russian. A total of over 1,083 brochures were distributed, along with identification cards containing a barcode granting pilgrims access to a vast online library, all aimed at enriching their religious experience and facilitating their access to reliable religious content.
Historical background and the Kingdom's role in sponsoring the Hajj
Serving pilgrims is a historic honor and a great responsibility that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has undertaken throughout the ages. Since its founding, the Saudi state has given great attention to developing the Hajj and Umrah system and providing the utmost comfort and safety for the millions who flock to the Holy Lands annually to perform the fifth pillar of Islam. These efforts at the Al-Batha border crossing are part of an integrated system in which all sectors of the state participate, in implementation of the directives of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and his Crown Prince, and in line with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places improving the Hajj and Umrah experience at the forefront of its priorities.
The importance of Al-Bathaa border crossing and its regional impact
The Al-Batha border crossing with the United Arab Emirates is one of the most important land crossings in the Kingdom, serving as a vital gateway for those arriving from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and neighboring states. Its importance is particularly pronounced during the Hajj season, when it receives thousands of pilgrims who prefer to travel by land. Equipping the crossing with all the necessary services to welcome pilgrims, including guidance and religious outreach provided by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, enhances the smooth flow of pilgrims and ensures they receive the necessary support immediately upon entering the Kingdom.
On the international level, the warm welcome extended to Russian pilgrims strengthens the cultural and religious ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation, which has a large Muslim community. This event also reinforces the Kingdom's positive image as the heart of the Islamic world and a welcoming home for Muslims from all corners of the globe, underscoring its global mission of promoting tolerance and moderation and serving Islam and Muslims.
