Addis Ababa, August 24, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia has repatriated 2,494 nationals from Saudi Arabia who had been living in difficult circumstances, as the government continues to advance its citizen-centered diplomatic priority by placing the protection and welfare of Ethiopians abroad at the forefront of its external engagement, the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs said.
The returnees arrived on 12 flights operated over the past week and comprised 2,312 men, 163 women and 19 infants. The group also included 189 people under the age of 18, according to the Ministry.
The latest arrivals bring the number of Ethiopians repatriated through the ongoing operation to more than 96,500 since the government launched the return effort on September 15, 2025.
The sustained operation represents a key dimension of Ethiopia’s citizen-centered diplomatic approach, which places the safety, dignity and well-being of its nationals at the core of the country’s engagement abroad, particularly when citizens encounter vulnerable or difficult circumstances.
The Ministry said the government’s efforts extend beyond facilitating safe return. Returning citizens are receiving appropriate follow-up care and support at airports and temporary accommodation centers, while coordinated measures are being strengthened to facilitate their reunification with families.
At the same time, efforts to prevent irregular migration are continuing alongside the repatriation program. The Ministry said it is working with relevant stakeholders and partner institutions to strengthen assistance, protection and reintegration support for returning citizens.
The continuing operation underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to translating its citizen-centered diplomatic priority into sustained action—from protecting nationals facing hardship abroad and facilitating their safe return to supporting their reintegration into their families and communities at home.