Travelers and private tour operators are anxious as the Iran-US conflict continues to affect flight operations and related services.
Nigerian pilgrims and operators are facing uncertainty as escalating tensions in the Middle East disrupt flights for the ongoing lesser hajj, Umrah, in Saudi Arabia.
Travelers and private tour operators are anxious as the Iran-US conflict continues to affect flight operations and related services.
This comes despite more than 122 million worshippers visiting Saudi Arabia during the 2025 Ramadan period.
The closure of key airspace routes, including Doha and Dubai, has forced many Nigerian pilgrims to reconsider their travel plans, raising concerns about safety, flight reliability, and timely arrival for sacred rituals.
Countries including Iran, Iraq, Israel, Syria, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have partially closed their skies following US and Israeli attacks on Iran, halting civilian air traffic across the region.
Airlines affected include Emirates, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Air France, British Airways, Syrian Air, Air India, Turkish Airlines, EgyptAir, Lufthansa, and Ethiopian Airlines. Saudi Arabian Airlines, however, continues operations as Saudi Arabia has not closed its airspace.
Some pilgrims have already experienced cancellations. Alhaji Auwal Sani, scheduled to fly from Kano on Monday, said his Qatar Airways flight was cancelled and his visa has not yet been issued.
“I planned to travel with my family today, but we are all stranded. They said the airspace may reopen on March 6, and the visa will be made available then,” he said.
Other travelers expressed concern over the uncertainty. Salihu Shu’aibu said, “I am thinking about cancelling the trip because I am afraid.” Hajiya Bilkisu also postponed her trip until next year, citing safety concerns: “I cannot risk it. I cannot leave my family behind while I am unsure of a safe journey. It feels like gambling.”
In Ilorin, Ola Abdul said the tensions had disrupted his preparations.
“Previously, my main concern was paying for the trip. Now, with the situation in the region, I don’t know what to do,” he said.
Pilgrims already in Saudi Arabia reported normal activities. Hussein Olugbon said, “Life is going on normally here. People are focused on prayers and rituals, and nobody seems concerned about the war.”
Travel operators warned of the financial impact. Sadiq Musa, Managing Director of Musab Travelling Agency, said major carriers like Qatar Airways and Emirates have suspended flights, leaving passengers stranded. “Some are travelling via Ethiopian Airlines, but fears of flying through volatile airspace are unsettling, especially for those combining European visits with Umrah,” he said.
Kano-based tour operator Fatima Idris confirmed a decline in bookings, with clients requesting postponements or refunds. “We are renegotiating with airlines and hotels to minimise losses,” she said.
Hajj industry expert Faruku Umar warned that disruptions could continue. “Umrah flights, even those booked months in advance, could be delayed, rescheduled, or cancelled due to airspace restrictions and security precautions. Pilgrims with layovers in the Gulf may be particularly affected.”
He advised travelers to prioritize safety: “Monitor travel advisories from Nigerian and Saudi authorities. Consider delaying your departure if flights are unreliable or if you feel uneasy travelling amid heightened regional tensions.
Make decisions based on official guidance, not solely on emotion or fear.”
Join us on our WhatsApp Platform @KOIKIMEDIA NEWS YOUR PAGE
koikimedia Bringing the World 🌎 Closer to Your Doorstep