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International Relations

Saudi Arabia–Iraq relations

Saudi Arabia and Iraq share a long land border; relations have been rebuilt since 2003 with the reopening of the Arar crossing and growing trade.

By Editorial Desk Edited by Site Administrator Updated

Overview

Saudi Arabia and Iraq share a land border of roughly 800 kilometres and a long history of cultural and religious ties. Relations were severed after the 1990 invasion of Kuwait and have been rebuilt since 2003.

Diplomatic relations

Saudi Arabia reopened its embassy in Baghdad in 2016 and has since expanded diplomatic engagement. The two countries coordinate on regional stability and on counter-terrorism.

Economic relations

The Arar border crossing, closed for three decades, reopened in 2020, restoring a direct trade route. Trade has grown, and Saudi Arabia has invested in Iraqi infrastructure and energy projects.

Pilgrimage

Iraqi pilgrims travel to Makkah and Madinah for the Hajj and Umrah, and the two countries cooperate on pilgrimage arrangements.

Transport

The Arar crossing links the two countries by road, and flights connect Baghdad and Erbil with Riyadh and Jeddah.

References

  1. Saudi Arabia and Iraq \u2014 Encyclopaedia Britannica (accessed 5 October 2026)
  2. Arar border crossing \u2014 Saudi Press Agency (accessed 5 October 2026)

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