What Happened to the 44 Umrah Pilgrims in the Saudi Bus Accident?
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Synopsis
Anxiety grips families as they await news about 44 Umrah pilgrims involved in a devastating bus accident near Madina, Saudi Arabia. The pilgrims, who had just completed their pilgrimage in Mecca, now leave their loved ones in despair as the search for answers continues.
Key Takeaways
- 44 Umrah pilgrims were involved in a severe bus accident in Saudi Arabia.
- The accident occurred 25 kilometers from Medina.
- Only one survivor, Mohammed Shoaib, has been reported so far.
- The travel agencies are sending representatives to assist families.
- Families are requesting the Indian government to assist with repatriation or burial arrangements.
Hyderabad, Nov 17 (NationPress) Relatives of Umrah pilgrims are in a state of distress as they await news of their loved ones following a tragic bus accident near the sacred city of Madina in Saudi Arabia. A total of 44 pilgrims departed for Saudi Arabia on November 9 via two travel agencies located in Hyderabad.
As reported by family members and the travel agencies, both groups had completed their Umrah (minor pilgrimage) in Mecca and were en route to Medina on Sunday evening.
According to the information available, the bus erupted in flames after colliding with a diesel tanker approximately 25 kilometers from Medina. The incident transpired around 11:30 p.m. local time.
Ijaz from Al-Makkah Tours and Travels stated that one of the pilgrims, Mohammed Shoaib, managed to escape the burning vehicle and was taken to a hospital. “We have no updates on the others. Our team from Mecca and Medina is heading to the scene to gather more information,” he mentioned.
Ijaz also shared that the bus driver reportedly jumped out and fled the scene, leaving details about the accident unclear.
In total, 20 pilgrims from Al-Makkah Tours and Travels and 24 from Flyzone Tours and Travels traveled to Mecca via a Saudi Airlines flight on November 9. Among them were 16 children.
Representatives from the travel agencies are traveling to Saudi Arabia to support the families affected by this tragedy.
Among the concerned relatives was Mohammed Tehseen, who rushed to the office of Al-Makkah Tours and Travels in hopes of receiving news about his family members.
However, like many others, he was left disheartened as the travel agency had no additional information apart from the fact that only one pilgrim had escaped the inferno.
“Seven members of our family were part of the pilgrim group. This includes my father-in-law, sister-in-law, co-brother, and their son,” he lamented.
Tehseen urged the Indian government to make arrangements for repatriating the deceased. “If that’s not feasible, they should ensure proper burial arrangements in Medina,” he added.
Point of View
I emphasize our commitment to delivering accurate and timely information. This tragic incident underscores the urgent need for updates on the well-being of the pilgrims involved. Our thoughts are with the families as they navigate this harrowing situation, and we stand ready to provide further insights.
NationPress
17/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the bus accident in Saudi Arabia?
The bus accident occurred when the vehicle collided with a diesel tanker and subsequently caught fire, approximately 25 kilometers from Medina.
How many pilgrims were involved in the accident?
A total of 44 Umrah pilgrims were involved in the accident.
What actions are being taken by the travel agencies?
Representatives from the travel agencies are traveling to Saudi Arabia to assist the families of the victims.
Is there any information on the survivors?
So far, only one pilgrim, Mohammed Shoaib, has been reported as a survivor from the accident.
What are the families of the victims requesting?
The families are urging the Indian government to arrange for the repatriation of the deceased or their burial in Medina.
