Saudi Arabia has finalised its preparations for Hajj this year (1446 AH), unveiling an integrated strategy aimed at ensuring a seamless pilgrimage experience through advanced digital services, enhanced health and transport systems and extensive infrastructure readiness. The announcements came during the 22nd government press conference, led by Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossary and attended by key ministers and officials involved in Hajj operations.
Al-Dossary affirmed the Kingdom’s full-scale mobilisation to serve pilgrims, aligning with the objectives of Vision 2030. He emphasised the continuation of the "No Hajj Without a Permit" campaign, citing it as critical for maintaining order and protecting pilgrims. So far, over 1.07 million pilgrims have arrived, including 249,000 via the Makkah Route Initiative, which expedites travel procedures before entering the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia has activated its full digital infrastructure, including over 10,000 free Wi-Fi points, 5,000 communication towers, 9,000 5G and 4G stations and 2,000 kilometres of fibre optics. More than 1.4 million updated Nusuk cards have been issued, providing pilgrims with integrated services and access to health and accommodation data.
In terms of religious support, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has readied over 25,000 mosques and distributed 2.5 million copies of the Qur’an. The National Centre for Non-Profit Sector aims to deploy 25,000 volunteers this season.
Transport Minister Saleh Al-Jasser detailed the mobilisation of over 45,000 transport workers. The aviation sector has arranged 7,000 flights from 238 global destinations, while the Haramain High Speed Railway will conduct more than 4,700 trips. Ground transportation will involve 25,000 buses and 9,000 taxis, supported by upgraded road infrastructure and 18 dedicated movement lanes. Road cooling systems, particularly near Namirah Mosque, have been expanded by 82% to reduce surface temperatures and improve comfort.
Health Minister Fahad AlJalajel confirmed the sector’s full readiness with a 60% increase in bed capacity and more than 50,000 medical personnel deployed. Preventive measures include health screenings and vaccination protocols initiated in pilgrims' countries of origin. Three new field hospitals, a 200-bed emergency hospital in Mina, and over 70 emergency points are now operational. The Seha Virtual Hospital and remote health sensors offer round-the-clock medical support.
To mitigate the impact of heat, Saudi Arabia has planted over 10,000 trees, installed 400 additional misting fans and expanded shaded areas. Awareness campaigns are being run in multiple languages, supported by 7,500 paramedics, 900 ambulances and 11 evacuation aircraft.
The conference also marked the launch of the second Hajj Media Forum, featuring over 5,000 journalists and international media representatives. The Saudi Broadcasting Authority is covering the pilgrimage with over 300 reports and multilingual programming.
With the highest-ever participation of private healthcare providers and rigorous inspection protocols across all services, Saudi Arabia reiterated its commitment to delivering a secure, efficient and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience in 1446 AH.