Riyadh: The Kingdom’s transportation and logistics sector is ready to welcome pilgrims this upcoming Hajj season 1445 AH, as various entities are working together to ensure a smooth and integrated experience for travelers arriving in the Kingdom.
The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) is at the forefront of the effort, ready to offer its services at six key airports: King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah), Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (Madinah), Taif International Airport (Taif), King Khalid International Airport (Riyadh), Prince Abdul Mohsin bin Abdulaziz International Airport (Yanbu), and King Fahd International Airport (Dammam).
To accommodate the influx of pilgrims, GACA has secured 3.4 million seats on 7,700 flights.
MATARAT Holding, a transportation and ground-handling services provider, is also well-equipped to serve pilgrims. It has set up 13 travel lounges at the six airports above, mobilized over 21,000 personnel, and implemented the “passenger with no bag” s
ervice, which enables pilgrims to complete departure procedures and check in luggage remotely, 24 hours before their flights.
Saudia Airlines, the national carrier, is equally prepared to transport pilgrims worldwide. It has allocated over 1.2 million seats and deployed a fleet of 150 fully equipped aircraft for the purpose.
Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) is facilitating pilgrim movement between holy sites on Al-Mashaaer Al-Mugaddassah Metro Line through over 2,000 scheduled trips and 17 trains dedicated to pilgrim transportation.
The “bracelet tickets” initiative will enable pilgrims to access camp information via QR codes and receive train schedule alerts on their smartphones.
The Haramain High Speed Railway will offer over 3,800 trips during the season on 35 trains covering five stations.
The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) is prepared to receive approximately 10,000 pilgrims arriving at Jeddah Islamic Port. Mawani offers a three-pronged approach: logistics services, to ensure efficient handling of contai
ners and cargo flow, pilgrim reception, by deploying personnel, equipment, and maritime services for a smooth arrival experience, and Hady and Adahi facilitation, by collaborating with port authorities to ensure the safe handling of sacrificial livestock.
Mawani will also continue its “leave without luggage” initiative, which enables pilgrims to check in their luggage 48 hours before departure.
The Transport General Authority (TGA) is fully prepared for the upcoming Hajj season of 1445 AH, assuring its ability to transport pilgrims efficiently. The TGA will provide over 27,000 buses and 5,000 taxis for pilgrim transportation. To ensure smooth movement, the TGA has designated 16 public transport routes and coordinated with relevant authorities. Safety measures are in place, including monitoring licensed carriers’ compliance with requirements. Moreover, the TGA will offer the “Taxi” application and utilize traffic monitoring technology. The authority also plans to expand the use of virtual reality (VR) glasse
s, which were introduced during the previous Hajj season.
The Roads General Authority (RGA) has made all necessary preparations to receive pilgrims through the road network surrounding the Kingdom. The road network is highly connected and ranked among the best globally, facilitating easy movement for pilgrims to the holy sites. The RGA has also installed over 4,000 linear metres of concrete and metal barriers, placed over 500 warning and guidance signs, and implemented safety measures such as ground paints, and warning vibrations. These measures ensure the comfort and safety of pilgrims during their journey.
The Saudi Post (SPL) is ready to handle over 230,000 official mail items during Hajj. SPL has prepared 45 post offices, provided 32 electric scooters, and equipped three mobile units for efficient logistical services. It has advanced facilities in Jeddah and Madinah to streamline operations and ensure fast parcel delivery. The aim is to meet pilgrims’ needs and provide a smooth and secure logistical exp
erience through including excellent logistical services.
The transportation and logistics sector plays a crucial role in serving pilgrims by offering various means of transportation, such as land, air, sea, and rail. Through the National Strategy for Transport and Logistic Services, the sector aims to empower various sectors and achieve goals including the “Pilgrim Experience Program” and Hajj and Umrah targets. These plans to assist pilgrims involve ensuring top-notch road networks, preparing airports and increasing their capacity, and providing multiple modes of transport.
Source: Saudi Press Agency