Over 30 Umrah buses briefly held at Saudi border over banned substance

ERBIL — More than 30 buses carrying Umrah pilgrims from the Kurdistan Region were briefly held at the Saudi border crossing in Arar after authorities discovered a banned substance on one of the vehicles, officials said Saturday.

Karwan Stuni, spokesperson for the Kurdistan Region’s Hajj and Umrah office, told 964media that Saudi officials halted the convoy for inspection but later allowed all buses to proceed.

“The situation has returned to normal and all buses have passed through, with no remaining issues for travelers,” Stuni said. He confirmed that Saudi authorities had flagged “a prohibited substance” but did not disclose the nature of the material.

The Iraqi Hajj and Umrah authority relayed to regional officials that an unspecified number of individuals had attempted to carry banned items into Saudi Arabia, Stuni said, but further details were not made public. “Saudi authorities have the right to investigate the matter further and may later issue an official announcement,” he added.

The incident prompted tighter inspections at the Arar crossing on Friday, delaying the passage of the buses. Stuni said his office had spoken with travelers who confirmed they were temporarily held, but the convoy resumed movement later that day.

Saudi authorities warned that repeat violations could result in the revocation of operating licenses for companies or individuals. Stuni urged pilgrims to avoid any action that could damage Iraq’s reputation. “Citizens should go to Saudi Arabia without risking the reputation of their country,” he said.

While the immediate disruption has ended, Saudi authorities are continuing their investigation.