Israelis Travel to Saudi Arabia by Bus for Religious Pilgrimage

An unusual plane landing in Saudi Arabia, carrying Israelis, has highlighted alternative travel routes used by Israeli Muslims journeying to the kingdom's holy sites. While Israel and Saudi Arabia do not have official diplomatic relations, Israeli Muslims frequently travel to Mecca and Medina for religious pilgrimages, particularly during the Eid al-Adha holiday.

These pilgrims often opt for overland travel, primarily by bus, which involves crossing into Jordan and then continuing their journey to Mecca via organized transport. This method is described as a "really good trip" with comfortable buses. While flying is also an option, either through Jordan or other Middle Eastern countries accessible to Israelis, the bus route is reportedly the most common.

One Israeli Muslim, Saeed, 38, from the Negev town of Abu Talul, shared his experience of traveling to Mecca by bus via Jordan. He noted that many Israelis make this pilgrimage, and while he traveled without his children this time, he has visited Mecca previously. The journey allows Muslims residing in Israel to fulfill their religious obligations despite the lack of formal ties between their country and Saudi Arabia.