Growing anxiety is gripping Nigerian pilgrims and tour operators as the ongoing hostilities involving Iran, the United States, and Israel disrupt flights across the Middle East, casting uncertainty over participation in the 2026 lesser hajj (Umrah) in Saudi Arabia. The annual pilgrimage, which traditionally attracts millions during Ramadan, saw over 122 million worshippers visit Saudi Arabia in 2025.
The escalation in the region, coupled with partial airspace closures over Doha, Dubai, and other key hubs, has left many intending Nigerian pilgrims reconsidering or postponing their spiritual journey. Concerns over safety, flight reliability, and timely arrival for the sacred rites have left many stranded or uncertain.
Following the US and Israeli strikes on Iran, countries including Iran, Iraq, Israel, Syria, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE partially closed their airspace, grounding civilian flights. Major international carriers such as Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Air France, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, EgyptAir, Lufthansa, and Ethiopian Airlines suspended or cancelled flights, disrupting travel plans for thousands. While Saudi Arabia has kept its airspace open, transit disruptions at connecting hubs have significantly affected pilgrims. Recent missile and drone attacks in the Gulf, including a reported strike on a Saudi oil refinery, have further intensified fears of potential airspace restrictions.
Several Nigerian pilgrims shared their frustrations. Alhaji Auwal Sani from Kano had his Qatar Airways flight cancelled unexpectedly. “I was to travel with my family today, but we are all stranded. God knows what is best for us,” he said, noting that the airline plans to resume flights on March 6. Salihu Shu’aibu expressed hesitation about travelling, saying, “With what is happening, I am thinking whether I will cancel the trip because I am afraid.” Hajiya Bilkisu had already postponed her journey until next year, citing concerns for her family’s safety. In Ilorin, Kwara State, Ola Abdul said the regional tensions had disrupted his long-awaited Umrah plans, adding that fear of the unknown has affected many prospective pilgrims.
Pilgrims currently in Saudi Arabia report that daily activities continue largely unaffected. Hussein Olugbon, speaking from the holy land, said, “Life is just going on normally, and everyone is busy with ibadah. The only noticeable impact has been on intending pilgrims booked with Turkish Airlines and Emirates.” Aminu Yusuf, who recently returned to Nigeria, said he was fortunate that Saudi Air maintained its schedule, while Usman Umar of Jos remained hopeful that his March 8 trip would proceed as planned.
Tour operators report that the crisis is taking a toll on business. Alhaji Abdullateef Ekundayo, National President of the Association for Hajj and Umrah Operators of Nigeria, highlighted the impact of Qatar and UAE airspace restrictions on flight operations. Sadiq Musa, Managing Director of Musab Travelling Agency, described the situation as financially draining, with passengers facing uncertainty over flight cancellations and disrupted itineraries. Kano-based operator Fatima Idris confirmed a sharp drop in bookings, noting increased requests for postponements and refunds.
Hajj industry expert Faruku Umar warned that Gulf airspace disruptions, crucial for African pilgrims travelling to Jeddah and Madinah, could continue. He advised prospective pilgrims to maintain close communication with airlines and travel agents and to consider delaying travel if flights are unreliable or safety concerns remain high.
As missiles continue to fly across parts of the Middle East, many Nigerian pilgrims remain caught between faith and fear, uncertain whether this year’s spiritual journey will proceed as planned.
