Ethiopia Repatriates 1,592 Nationals From Saudi Arabia as Citizen-Centered Diplomacy Takes Priority

Addis Ababa, September 21, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia has repatriated 1,592 nationals who had been living in difficult conditions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as the country continues its efforts to bring citizens home safely and support their reintegration with their families.

The latest group arrived through nine flights operated last week, including 34 people under the age of 18, according to the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs.

The Ministry said the returnees are receiving support and care at the airport and temporary accommodation centers, while efforts are underway to reunite them with their families.

The ongoing repatriation reflects citizen-centered diplomacy, the primary pillar among the four priorities of Ethiopia’s diplomacy under the Medemer state. This approach places the safety, dignity and welfare of Ethiopian citizens at the center of the country’s diplomatic engagement, including its responsibility toward nationals facing difficult circumstances abroad.

Launched on September 15, 2025, the repatriation operation has so far brought more than 103,000 Ethiopians home, according to the Ministry.

The continued operation underscores the human dimension of Ethiopia’s diplomatic engagement—sustaining efforts to assist citizens in distress abroad, facilitate their safe return and support their reintegration into family and community life.