Jeddah, April 19 -- More than 500 Egyptian nationals have been detained at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah after attempting to enter Saudi Arabia on transit visas to perform Umrah without valid Haj permits.

Viral videos circulating on social media show detained passengers, many dressed in ihram, chanting inside the airport in protest. Reports suggest the group urged Saudi authorities to adjust their visa status to allow them to proceed with the pilgrimage.

In response, Saudi authorities have begun coordinating with airlines to return the travellers to Egypt. Legal consequences, including deportation or financial penalties, may be enforced.

Watch the videos here

This incident comes shortly after the final entry date for ...