Tragic Road Accident in Saudi Arabia Claims Lives of Five Pakistani Umrah Pilgrims

Riyadh, April 21 A devastating road accident in Saudi Arabia has claimed the lives of five Pakistani Umrah pilgrims, including three women and two elderly men, and left several others injured. The incident occurred when a bus carrying the pilgrims collided with a trailer while en route from Al-Badr to Madinah.

According to reports by ARY News, the victims hailed from various villages in Pakistan’s Punjab province. The deceased women were residents of villages near Bahawalnagar—228/9-R and 201 Murad, while the men were from 39/3-R and Dahranwala. Emergency officials confirmed that the injured include women, children, and senior citizens, many of whom have been shifted to nearby hospitals for urgent medical care.

Pakistan Responds with Condolences and Support

Pakistan’s National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and offered prayers for the departed souls and speedy recovery of the injured. He has also instructed the Pakistani embassy in Saudi Arabia to extend full support to the victims’ families and ensure necessary assistance is provided to those injured.

Larger Crisis Looms Over Pakistani Pilgrims

This tragic accident coincides with broader challenges facing Pakistani pilgrims this year. Reports from ARY News also reveal that over 67,000 Pakistani pilgrims were unable to perform Haj in 2025 due to mismanagement by private tour operators. These complications have trapped around PKR 36 billion in Saudi Arabia, with the kingdom reportedly refusing refunds, instead offering to carry forward the funds to next year’s pilgrimage.

The delay in approving Pakistan’s Haj Policy 2025 led to a missed deadline for private operators to submit applications. Despite the funds being transferred to Saudi authorities, logistical coordination failures resulted in incomplete arrangements.

Hajj Quota Controversy Adds to Pilgrims’ Woes

Sources indicate a lack of timely communication between Pakistani and Saudi officials exacerbated the situation. Additionally, Pakistan’s Ministry of Religious Affairs has confirmed that some private firms obtained court orders, halting further quota allocations. As a result, only 23,620 pilgrims will be able to perform Haj under private schemes this year, compared to the usual 90,000.

Community Mourns, Authorities Under Pressure

This incident and the surrounding crisis have sparked public outcry and renewed calls for transparency and reform in the private pilgrimage sector. Families of the victims and affected pilgrims are seeking both justice and compensation.

Pakistani authorities have pledged a review of policies and coordination mechanisms to prevent such tragedies and mismanagement in the future.