KSA Hosts Record 18.5 Million Pilgrims in 2024
Saudi Arabia welcomed an unprecedented 18.5 million pilgrims to Makkah and Madinah in 2024, according to the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq Al-Rabiah. This figure included 16,924,689 Umrah performers and 1,611,310 Hajj pilgrims.
The record-breaking numbers were shared during the fourth Hajj and Umrah Services Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah, running through January 16. Themed “The Road to the Nusuk,” the event, organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah alongside the Pilgrim Experience Program, brought together over 300 local and international organizations showcasing innovations aimed at enhancing the pilgrim experience.
Makkah Taxi Launch
A highlight of the conference was the introduction of Makkah Taxi, a transport service developed by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites. Officially launched on January 13, the service will gradually expand its operations across 47 strategic locations in Makkah, including areas near the Grand Mosque.
Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh Al-Jasser awarded the operating license to the winning company. The Makkah Taxi fleet is expected to grow to approximately 1,800 vehicles by the end of 2025 to meet increasing transport demand.
The taxis offer secure and convenient services, equipped with advanced surveillance systems, smart sensors, emergency buttons, and a customer service center. Passengers can pay using cash or credit cards, with fares regulated by the Public Transport Authority. CEO of the Royal Commission, Saleh Al-Rasheed, emphasized the fleet’s use of environmentally friendly hybrid and electric systems, reinforcing Makkah’s reputation as a sustainable and smart city.
AI-Powered Security, Compliance Initiatives
The Ministry of Interior showcased its advanced security systems powered by artificial intelligence at the event. These systems include digital solutions for crowd management and tools supporting the “No Hajj Without a Permit” campaign, which promotes regulatory compliance and ensures a safe pilgrimage experience.
The Makkah region principality’s pavilion highlighted regulatory awareness, while the Madinah region principality focused on services for pilgrims and Umrah performers.
Innovation, Sustainability Discussions
The four-day conference included 47 discussion panels, 50 workshops, and over 130 speakers addressing topics such as sustainability, eco-friendly technologies, artificial intelligence in crowd management, and entrepreneurial opportunities in the Hajj sector.
In collaboration with Umm Al-Qura University, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah also organized the “Humanizing the Holy Sites” hackathon. This initiative invited students, entrepreneurs, and specialists to develop sustainable solutions aimed at improving the pilgrim experience while minimizing environmental impact.
Related Topics :
Grand Mosque Authority Offers Free Luggage Storage for Umrah Pilgrims
European Pilgrims Explore Prophet’s Biography Museum, Islamic Heritage Sites
Saudi Arabia to Host Hajj Conference and Exhibition to Improve Pilgrims Experiences
King Salman Approves Hosting 1,000 Umrah Pilgrims from 66 Countries
