62 Airlines Operate 3,314 Hajj Flights from 238 Global Destinations

In a press conference held at the Hajj Media Operations Center in Makkah on Monday, June 2, 2025, Saleh Al-Zuwaid, spokesperson for the Hajj Transport and Logistics System, provided a detailed overview of the transportation and logistics arrangements for the 2025 Hajj season. He reported that 62 air carriers successfully operated 3,314 flights, transporting pilgrims from 238 destinations across 71 countries worldwide. This extensive global network underscores the monumental scale of the Hajj pilgrimage, which draws millions of Muslims annually to the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah. The operational efficiency of these air travel operations was a focal point, with meticulous planning ensuring a seamless arrival process for pilgrims. The coordination of such a vast number of flights required robust collaboration between international aviation authorities, airlines, and Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation, ensuring that pilgrims from diverse regions, including remote areas, could access the holy sites with minimal disruption.

The reception process at airports, particularly at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, was optimized to handle the influx of pilgrims. Dedicated Hajj terminals, equipped with advanced passenger processing systems and multilingual staff, facilitated swift immigration and customs procedures. Al-Zuwaid emphasized that these measures contributed significantly to the smooth flow of pilgrims, reducing wait times and enhancing the overall experience. The use of digital tools, such as the Nusuk platform, further streamlined pre-arrival registration and coordination, allowing pilgrims to submit documentation and receive guidance in advance.

Complementing the air travel infrastructure, the Haramain High-Speed Rail played a pivotal role in pilgrim transportation. Al-Zuwaid highlighted that 4,700 rail trips were scheduled for the season, with a capacity to transport up to two million passengers—a notable increase of 400,000 seats compared to 2024. This expansion reflects ongoing investments in the rail system, which connects Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah at speeds of up to 300 km/h. A significant enhancement this year was a 75% increase in trips between King Abdulaziz International Airport Station and Makkah, averaging approximately one trip per hour. By Sunday, June 1, 2025, the rail had already transported 700,000 passengers, demonstrating its critical role in reducing road congestion and providing a reliable, high-speed transport option. The rail’s air-conditioned carriages, designed to accommodate large groups, ensured pilgrim comfort during the journey, particularly in the intense summer heat.

The Mashaer Train, another cornerstone of the Hajj transportation system, was highlighted for its capacity to handle over two million passengers across more than 2,000 trips within a seven-day period. Operating in the Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah areas, the train facilitates the movement of pilgrims during the peak rituals of Hajj, such as the Day of Arafat and the stoning of the Jamarat. Each train can carry up to 3,000 passengers, and the system’s nine stations are strategically located to ensure efficient crowd management. Advanced scheduling and real-time monitoring systems minimize delays, ensuring that pilgrims can perform their rituals on time. The train’s eco-friendly electric operation also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 sustainability goals, reducing the carbon footprint of the pilgrimage.

A notable technological advancement this year was the expanded use of road cooling technology at the holy sites, which increased by 82% compared to the previous year. This innovation, applied to roads around the Namirah Mosque and other key areas, reduces surface temperatures by up to 12°C. By mitigating the extreme heat, which can exceed 40°C during the Hajj season, this technology enhances pilgrim safety and comfort, particularly for those walking long distances between ritual sites. The expansion of this initiative reflects ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure in response to environmental challenges, ensuring that pilgrims can focus on their spiritual journey without the added burden of extreme heat.

Saad Al-Shanbari, spokesperson for the Hajj Communications and Technology System, provided insights into the significant upgrades in connectivity for the 2025 season. He reported that 4G and 5G network coverage across Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites reached an impressive 99%, resulting in a 10% increase in average internet speeds to 264 megabits per second (Mbps). In Makkah and Madinah specifically, speeds surged to 336 Mbps, a 19% improvement over 2024. This enhanced connectivity was supported by the deployment of over 10,000 Wi-Fi access points, established in collaboration with leading telecommunications providers. These access points ensured that pilgrims could stay connected with family, access digital services, and navigate the holy sites using apps like Nusuk, which offers real-time guidance and crowd updates.

A groundbreaking development this year was the implementation of an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered crowd management system, developed in partnership with Aramco. Utilizing HAI surveillance cameras, this system analyzes crowd dynamics in real time, enabling authorities to monitor congestion, identify potential bottlenecks, and deploy resources efficiently. The AI technology enhances safety by predicting crowd movements and facilitating rapid response to emergencies, a critical factor given the dense gatherings during Hajj rituals. Al-Shanbari also noted that the Communications and Space Technology Commission (CSTC) leveraged cutting-edge innovations to ensure robust network reliability, even under the strain of millions of simultaneous users.

These advancements in transportation and communications reflect a holistic approach to enhancing the Hajj experience. The integration of high-speed rail, eco-friendly trains, road cooling technology, and AI-driven crowd management demonstrates a commitment to leveraging innovation for pilgrim welfare. The expansion of digital infrastructure, including high-speed internet and widespread Wi-Fi access, empowers pilgrims with real-time information and connectivity, making the pilgrimage more accessible and manageable. These efforts align with Saudi Arabia’s broader vision to modernize infrastructure while preserving the spiritual sanctity of the Hajj, ensuring that the millions of pilgrims who converge on Makkah and Madinah each year can perform their rituals with ease, safety, and comfort.