European pilgrims reach Saudi Arabia on horses for Hajj

Four Muslim pilgrims—three from Spain and one from Morocco—have captured hearts across the Muslim world by arriving at Saudi Arabia’s Al-Hadithah border crossing on horseback after a grueling, weeks-long journey across Europe and the Middle East to perform Hajj.

Their arrival was met with a warm and emotional welcome by Saudi officials and volunteers in the northern Al-Qurayyat region.

A video widely circulated on social media shows the dust-covered, weary pilgrims being greeted with cheers, fragrance sprays, and heartfelt applause, symbolizing the reverence of their remarkable feat.

Al-Hadithah Center Director, Mamdouh Al-Mutairi, personally received the group, calling their journey a “powerful testament to faith and devotion.”

He said, “This extraordinary voyage reflects the spiritual drive that compels pilgrims from all over the world to undertake Hajj despite all challenges. We pray for their safe journey and accepted pilgrimage.”

Read more: Saudi Arabia unveils major heat protection measures ahead of Hajj 2025

Saudi border authorities, alongside medical teams and support staff, conducted health checkups for the travelers and provided refreshments and essential Hajj guidance, as part of the kingdom’s broader plan to ensure dignified and secure entry for all pilgrims.

The Al-Hadithah Local Development Association also organized a ceremonial farewell, presenting the pilgrims with gifts, flowers, and traditional Arabian hospitality before they continued toward Makkah.

Officials from Al-Qurayyat and Al-Hadithah remain fully mobilized under Saudi Arabia’s national Hajj plan, working to guarantee a smooth, safe, and spiritually enriching experience for pilgrims arriving from every corner of the globe.