WATCH: Pilgrims on horseback trek across continents for Hajj 2025
Group of four welcomed at Saudi Arabia’s northern Al Hadithah border
DUBAI: In an era defined by high-speed jets and digital passes, a rare sight has captivated the region: four pilgrims, on horseback, crossing borders and continents to perform Hajj 2025 in Saudi Arabia.
The group, made up of three Spaniards and one Moroccan, arrived at the Al Hadithah land border in Al Qurayyat this week after travelling thousands of kilometres on horseback.
A video making rounds online shows the riders – dusty, tired, yet determined – entering Saudi Arabia, greeted by heartfelt applause and admiration. Their unconventional journey has sparked widespread attention for its sheer endurance and spiritual depth.
رحلة حج اسثنائية على ظهور الخيل..
— صحيفة المدينة (@Almadinanews) May 2, 2025
وصول حجاج إسبان إلى أرض المملكة عبر منفذ الحديثة الحدودي لإكمال رحلتهم إلى الديار المقدسة#حجاج_اسبانيين_على_الخيل https://t.co/5zYn6BgxQ7#صحيفة_المدينة pic.twitter.com/Ml5W9Bnd4V
Warm welcome
At the border, Mamdouh Al Mutairi, head of the Al Hadithah centre, personally received the travellers. He praised their dedication and offered them warm wishes for a safe and spiritually fulfilling Hajj. Border officials and health teams swiftly provided the group with medical support, food, drinks, and guidance – part of Saudi Arabia’s broader initiative to treat every pilgrim with dignity and efficiency.
The local Development Association of Al Hadithah also held a celebratory reception. Volunteers welcomed the horsemen with flowers, hospitality kits, and words of encouragement, underscoring the region’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment for all Hajj participants.
Hajj 2025
As Hajj 2025 preparations ramp up, Saudi Arabia has begun receiving pilgrims via land, sea, and air.
At King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, early arrivals have experienced similarly warm receptions, with government agencies ensuring seamless services across all entry points.