Pilgrims from around the world are arriving in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage, supported by a system of updated procedures and technologies designed to enhance their experience.
This system aims to ease their journey between Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah, and ensure a smooth stay at the holy sites.
The main entry points for these pilgrims are King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Airport in Madinah.
These airports are crucial entry points for the nearly 1.5 million pilgrims. Last year’s Hajj season saw 1.6 million international pilgrims flocking to holy sites in the Kingdom.
They benefit from high-quality services and fast entry procedures thanks to modern technology.
Saudi Arabia is improving Hajj services with its “Makkah Route” initiative, led by the Ministry of Interior.
Now in its sixth year, this program has expanded from one to seven countries and is expected to grow further. The initiative offers high-quality transport services for pilgrims, making their journey smoother from their home countries to Saudi Arabia.
The Makkah Route simplifies the process by handling steps such as electronic visa issuance and biometric data collection in the pilgrims’ home countries.
The General Directorate of Passports ensures all entry requirements, including health checks, are met at the departure airport.
Luggage is tagged and sorted based on travel and accommodation plans in Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims then take buses directly to their accommodations in Makkah and Madinah, with partner agencies delivering their luggage.
Col. Maher Al Masoud, Director of Passports at King Abdulaziz International Airport, told Asharq Al-Awsat that they receive numerous flights daily, including those from the “Makkah Route” initiative.
This year, the initiative supports pilgrims from seven countries and 11 cities. Each year, the program is reviewed to improve its services based on feedback.
He explained that the “Makkah Route” program handles all travel procedures for pilgrims both in their home countries and upon arrival at King Abdulaziz and Prince Mohammad airports.
Pilgrims then go directly to transportation and their accommodations. Starting with one country, the initiative now includes seven and aims to expand further, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey for all pilgrims.
Al Masoud added that the program uses e-systems for issuing Hajj visas and completing arrival procedures in the pilgrims' home countries, including necessary vaccinations.
