The first flights of the Makkah Route Initiative depart from Istanbul Airport
The Makkah Route Initiative launches trips from Türkiye
In a move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to facilitating the Hajj pilgrimage, the first flights carrying pilgrims benefiting from the Makkah Route Initiative from the initiative's dedicated terminal at Istanbul International Airport in Turkey. The flights departed directly to the Kingdom via Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, with a comprehensive system of services designed to ensure the pilgrims' comfort from the moment they leave their home countries.
Historical context and development of services for pilgrims
This step is part of the Kingdom's ongoing historical efforts to serve the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors. The initiative was first launched in 1438 AH (2017 CE), marking a qualitative leap in the history of Hajj organization. These efforts are a key component of the Guests of God Service Program, one of the most important programs of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to fundamentally transform the Hajj and Umrah experience. Since its launch, the initiative has successfully served more than 1,254,994 pilgrims, reflecting the rapid development and transition from traditional procedures to advanced digital solutions that save time and effort.
Objectives of the Makkah Route Initiative and streamlining procedures
The initiative primarily aims to provide high-quality services to pilgrims from participating countries. This is achieved by receiving pilgrims and completing all their procedures in their home countries with ease and convenience. These procedures begin with collecting biometric data and issuing Hajj visas electronically, followed by completing passport control procedures at the departure airport, after a thorough verification of all necessary health requirements to ensure everyone's safety.
Baggage management and direct transfer
In addition to streamlining paperwork and health procedures, the initiative includes an advanced baggage coding and sorting system based on transportation and accommodation arrangements within the Kingdom. Upon arrival, pilgrims are transferred directly to designated buses that transport them to their accommodations in Makkah and Madinah via dedicated routes, while partner agencies deliver their luggage directly to their rooms, thus eliminating the need to wait in arrival halls.
Regional and international impact of facilitating the Hajj journey
This pioneering project has a profound impact at the local, regional, and international levels. Locally, it significantly reduces congestion at Saudi airports during the peak Hajj season. Regionally and internationally, it enhances the Kingdom's soft power and highlights its global leadership in crowd management and the application of artificial intelligence and technology to serve humanity. It also strengthens bilateral relations with participating Islamic countries, as pilgrims and their governments witness firsthand the exceptional care and attention the Saudi leadership dedicates to their comfort.
Integrating national efforts to ensure the success of the work
It is worth noting that the Ministry of Interior is implementing this initiative for the eighth year in full coordination and integration with several government entities. This collaboration includes the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Health, Hajj and Umrah, and Media, in addition to the General Authority of Civil Aviation, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), the General Authority for Endowments, the Guests of God Service Program, and the General Directorate of Passports. All of this is done in conjunction with the digital partner, stc Group, to ensure a robust technological infrastructure that supports the initiative's success year after year.
