Saudi Arabia has started a major rescue operation under which Iraqi citizens stranded in New Delhi and Egypt are being sent back to their country. According to the official report on March 14, 2026, Iraq’s airspace is closed due to regional tensions. In such a situation, Saudi Arabia has opened its doors to help these stranded people. Iraq’s Ministry of Transport and Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with Saudi authorities, has approved 6 special flights so that citizens can be safely transported home.
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How is this rescue operation going on?
Special flights coming from New Delhi and Egypt are being landed at Arar Airport in northern Saudi Arabia. After landing at the airport, all citizens are being taken to Jadidat Arar (Al-Jadida) border crossing via buses. After reaching the border, passengers are directly entering Iraq by road. Saudi Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority (ZATCA) is monitoring this entire process and checking so that the passengers do not face any problem.
Saudi Arabia provided special evacuation visa facility
The Saudi government has approved a special evacuation visa for this rescue mission, which is valid only for returning home. On this visa, citizens cannot do Umrah or any kind of general visit. Travelers do not need to apply in advance at the Iraqi Embassy in Riyadh; they can obtain this visa directly at the border crossing. For travel, passengers must have their valid passport and evacuation visa proof of entry into Saudi Arabia.
Effect of lack of flights and closed airspace
Iraq’s airspace was closed to commercial flights from 28 February 2026. Due to closure of air routes, people were stranded in Gulf countries and India and the prices of commercial flights had increased significantly. At present, airlines like Air India and Indigo have imposed fuel surcharge ranging from Rs 425 to Rs 2300 on tickets. Iraq’s Crisis Cell has taken this step in view of the problems of the common people and these 6 special flights have been arranged by the government.