Many of of the Ethiopians from the Middle Eastern country are undocumented migrant workers who have been detained in squalid conditions.

More than a week since the drive began close to 5,000 migrant workers have been returned, according to a statement from Ethiopia's women and social affairs ministry.

In a campaign that could take up to 11 months, the authorities have pledged to bring a 100,000 Ethiopians home from Saudi Arabia.

The returnees are provided with temporary shelters and medical support upon arrival.

However, it is not clear if they will be offered a sustainable means of getting income once they settle in.