Ethiopia’s Citizen-First Diplomacy Advances as 2,463 Nationals Repatriated from Saudi Arabia

Addis Ababa, August 31, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia has repatriated 2,463 nationals from Saudi Arabia who had been living in difficult conditions, as the government continues efforts to facilitate the return of citizens facing hardship abroad.

The latest returnees include 2,462 men and one woman, among them 57 people under the age of 18.

According to information from the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, more than 98,900 Ethiopians have been repatriated since the citizen-return operation began on September 15, 2025.

The returning citizens are receiving appropriate care at airports and temporary accommodation centers, while efforts are also underway to reunite them with their families, the Ministry said.

The continuing repatriation effort underscores Ethiopia’s focus on the protection and wellbeing of its citizens abroad, translating its citizen-first approach into practical measures to support nationals facing difficult circumstances outside the country.