Ethiopia Repatriating Nearly 2,000 Citizens Pardoned in Saudi Arabia

Addis Ababa, July 13, 2026 (FMC) — The Government of Ethiopia has begun facilitating the repatriation of 1,971 Ethiopian nationals who benefited from royal amnesties granted by Saudi Arabia, following sustained diplomatic and consular engagements between the two countries.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Ethiopia remains closely engaged with the relevant Saudi authorities regarding matters affecting Ethiopian nationals in the Kingdom, including individuals facing legal proceedings and judicial measures.

The Ministry said the Ethiopian government places the highest priority on the welfare, protection and consular assistance of its citizens abroad, adding that engagements with Saudi Arabia have continued at the highest levels of government.

It noted that the Ethiopian Embassy in Riyadh and the Consulate General in Jeddah have maintained regular communication and constructive engagement with relevant Saudi authorities to seek humanitarian consideration, ensure access to consular support and pursue appropriate solutions for Ethiopian citizens facing difficult circumstances.

According to the Ministry, these sustained diplomatic and consular efforts have resulted in positive humanitarian outcomes, with 1,971 Ethiopian nationals benefiting from royal amnesties granted by the Saudi authorities. The Ethiopian government has subsequently started facilitating their return home.

The Ministry described the development as a reflection of the constructive cooperation and longstanding relations between Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia, particularly in consular and humanitarian affairs.

It reaffirmed that Ethiopia will continue using all available diplomatic and consular channels to safeguard the interests, rights and welfare of Ethiopian nationals abroad and maintain engagement with Saudi authorities on remaining matters affecting its citizens.