Makkah Route Initiative Successfully Aids Nearly One Million Pilgrims Since Launch In 2017

The Makkah Route Initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Interior in 2017, has significantly eased the Hajj journey for nearly one million pilgrims from outside Saudi Arabia. Now in its seventh year, this initiative highlights its effectiveness by utilising Saudi Arabia's advanced digital systems and skilled workforce to offer a smooth Hajj experience.

Beginning at departure airports in their home countries, the initiative provides a unique religious and cultural journey for pilgrims. It continues until they reach Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah or King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. This is achieved through a dedicated network of partners and service providers operating around the clock.

This year, the initiative operates from 11 airports across seven countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Morocco, Türkiye, and Côte d'Ivoire. The journey started in 2017 (1438 AH) with Malaysia as the first participant, benefiting 1,692 pilgrims. Over time, it expanded to include more countries and serve more pilgrims each year.

In 2018 (1439 AH), Malaysia and Indonesia were included, assisting 103,057 pilgrims. By 2019 (1440 AH), Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Tunisia joined the program, benefiting 171,919 pilgrims. In 2022 (1443 AH), Morocco was added alongside existing countries like Malaysia and Indonesia.

The Makkah Route Initiative simplifies the Hajj process for pilgrims before they leave their home countries. This involves collecting biometric data and issuing electronic Hajj visas at departure airports. It also includes passport control procedures and verifying health requirements.

Luggage is tagged and sorted according to transportation and accommodation arrangements in Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims are directly transferred to buses for travel to their residences in Makkah and Madinah via designated routes. Partner agencies ensure luggage delivery to accommodations.

Collaborative Efforts

The Ministry of Interior collaborates with various ministries including foreign affairs, Hajj and Umrah, health, media, as well as other authorities like the General Authority of Civil Aviation and the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority. These collaborations ensure seamless implementation of the initiative.

By 2023 (1444 AH), operations spanned seven countries serving 242,272 pilgrims. Continuing into 2024 (1445 AH), it served 322,901 pilgrims across these nations. Since its inception, a total of 940,657 pilgrims have benefited from this initiative.

The Makkah Route Initiative remains committed to facilitating an easy path to Makkah for pilgrims worldwide. It enables more Muslims to perform Hajj with peace of mind by completing essential procedures in their own countries before travelling.

With inputs from SPA