Air, rail, road, and sea networks activated to transport millions of pilgrims.
Dubai: Saudi Arabia has activated its highest level of readiness across its transport and logistics system ahead of the 1447 Hajj season, mobilising air, land, rail, and maritime networks to ensure the safe and seamless movement of millions of pilgrims.
The Ministry of Transport and Logistics said the preparations are part of a fully integrated approach linking all modes of transport, aimed at delivering a smooth and secure pilgrimage journey for visitors arriving from around the world.
In aviation, more than 3.1 million seats have been allocated for pilgrims, supported by over 12,000 scheduled and charter flights. Authorities said regulatory teams have been deployed to ensure airlines and airports comply with performance and service standards.
Six key airports have been designated to receive Hajj flights, supported by a workforce of more than 22,000 staff. New initiatives include a “baggage-free traveller” service, allowing luggage to be shipped directly from accommodation, along with expanded pre-shipment of Zamzam water.
National carriers have also boosted capacity. Saudia has provided more than one million seats, supported by advanced digital services, while flynas said it is prepared to transport hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, including more than 147,000 from 20 international destinations.
Rail services are set to play a central role in transporting pilgrims between holy sites. Saudi Arabia Railways has scheduled more than 2,000 trips for the Mashair train, expected to carry over two million passengers between Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat.
The Haramain High Speed Railway will operate 5,308 journeys with a capacity exceeding 2.2 million seats, linking Mecca and Medina via King Abdulaziz International Airport.
On the roads, authorities have carried out extensive maintenance work, including clearing more than 56 million cubic metres of sand dunes, servicing 178,000 lighting units, and installing over 4,000 directional and warning signs to enhance safety.
Public transport has also been reinforced with a fleet of more than 33,000 buses and 5,000 taxis, alongside increased field inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Logistics and postal services are also being expanded, with Saudi Post deploying a fleet of trucks and delivery vehicles, along with electric scooters and motorbikes to support operations in high-density areas, including airports and hospitals.
At sea, facilities at Jeddah Islamic Port have been prepared to receive pilgrims, with dedicated teams assigned to streamline procedures.
The National Transport Safety Center (Saudi Arabia) said emergency and response teams will operate around the clock across all transport sectors, ensuring rapid intervention in case of incidents.
