3.1m seats, 12,000 flights: Saudi unveils massive Hajj transport plan for pilgrims

Saudi Arabia has activated its highest level of readiness across its transport and logistics network ahead of the 1447 Hajj season, aiming to ensure smooth movement for millions of pilgrims through a fully integrated system.

The Ministry of Transport and Logistics said the plan connects air, land, rail and maritime services to deliver a safe and seamless pilgrimage experience for visitors arriving from around the world, reports the Gulf News.

In the aviation sector, authorities have allocated more than 3.1 million seats, supported by over 12,000 scheduled and charter flights. Six major airports will handle Hajj operations, with more than 22,000 personnel deployed to maintain service standards.

New initiatives include a "baggage-free traveller" service, allowing pilgrims to send luggage directly from their accommodation, along with expanded pre-shipment of Zamzam water.

National carriers have significantly increased capacity. Saudia is offering more than one million seats with enhanced digital services, while flynas plans to transport hundreds of thousands of pilgrims, including over 1,47,000 from 20 international destinations.

Rail transport will play a key role in managing pilgrim movement 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.

Meanwhile, the Haramain high-speed railway will operate 5,308 trips with a capacity exceeding 2.2 million seats, linking Mecca and Medina via King Abdulaziz International Airport.

On the roads, authorities have carried out large-scale maintenance, including clearing more than 56 million cubic metres of sand, servicing 1,78,000 lighting units and installing over 4,000 directional and warning signs.

Public transport has been reinforced with over 33,000 buses and 5,000 taxis, alongside increased inspections to ensure safety compliance.

Logistics and postal services are also being expanded, with Saudi Post deploying additional vehicles, including electric scooters and motorbikes, to support operations in high-density areas such as airports and hospitals.

At sea, facilities at Jeddah Islamic Port have been prepared to receive pilgrims, with dedicated teams working to streamline procedures.

The National Transport Safety Center said emergency response teams will operate round the clock across all sectors to ensure rapid intervention in case of any incidents.