Saudi Passports' efforts in receiving pilgrims for the 1447 AH season
The General Directorate of Passports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia announced that it has raised its readiness level to the highest degree, intensifying its efforts to receive pilgrims arriving to perform Hajj for the 1447 AH season. These comprehensive preparations, implemented across all of the Kingdom's land, sea, and air entry points, are part of an integrated system of services and modern technologies that contribute to facilitating entry procedures and ensuring their smooth and rapid completion. This reflects the wise leadership's commitment to providing the highest quality services to the pilgrims from the moment they arrive.
The Kingdom has a glorious history of serving the pilgrims
For decades, the care of the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors has been a top priority for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia since its unification by the founding King Abdulaziz Al Saud – may God have mercy on him. The mechanisms for managing pilgrim delegations have witnessed tremendous development over time. From procedures that relied on time-consuming manual and paper-based processes, the Kingdom has now transitioned to a comprehensive digital transformation. This significant digital shift aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to enrich the religious experience and facilitate the pilgrim's journey from their home country to their safe return, making travel safer and more comfortable.
Innovative passport plan for receiving pilgrims
The official spokesperson for the General Directorate of Passports, Major Nasser Al-Otaibi, explained that the operational plan for the Hajj season includes unprecedented support for passport control points at international ports of entry. This is achieved by providing qualified and trained personnel equipped with the latest advanced technologies to enhance the speed and accuracy of processing procedures. Al-Otaibi stated that the steps for receiving pilgrims begin with welcoming them and directing them to the passport control points, followed by verifying the validity of their travel documents and visas according to the approved requirements. This is followed by completing entry procedures through biometric registration (fingerprinting), ensuring the organization and high accuracy of the process. The Passports Directorate has also ensured that its staff are trained in the various languages spoken by pilgrims to facilitate effective communication.
Regional and international impact of developing the Hajj system
The Kingdom's continued success in managing millions of pilgrims has far-reaching positive effects. Domestically, this organization enhances the efficiency of security and service agencies and creates a safe environment for citizens, residents, and visitors. Regionally and internationally, the facilities provided leave a profound impression on Muslims worldwide, reinforcing the Kingdom's position as a leader of the Islamic world and a global model for managing massive gatherings. The speed of processing and reduced waiting times at entry points contribute to increased pilgrim satisfaction, which positively impacts the Kingdom's image on the international stage.
Security arrangements and entry permits to the Holy City
In coordination with relevant authorities to implement Hajj regulations and instructions, the General Directorate of Passports confirmed that entry to the Holy City of Mecca during the Hajj season requires obtaining the necessary permits for the specified categories. It added that entry permits for domestic workers to the Holy City are issued electronically and easily through the Absher platform via the employer's account. Simultaneously, permits for employees of establishments in the Holy City are issued through the Muqeem portal. This technological system is distinguished by its ability to automatically read permits at the entrances to the Holy City without the need to visit passport offices, thanks to its full integration with the Tasreeh platform, thus ensuring smooth traffic flow and precise security measures.
