Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia and the Transport General Authority (TGA) have intensified operational readiness for the 2026 Hajj season, introducing digital accommodation systems and conducting field inspections across key transport hubs in Jeddah and Makkah to improve pilgrim services and mobility.
In Mina, the Ministry of Tourism launched a smart accommodation service for pilgrims as part of a broader development initiative during the Hajj season aimed at improving operational efficiency and enhancing hospitality standards.
The service uses artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies to streamline the reception and accommodation process, ensuring faster service delivery and improved comfort for pilgrims.
Ministry spokesperson Nasr Al-Ansari stated that the system is designed to improve real-time coordination in receiving and housing pilgrims. He said it reduces waiting times upon arrival by enabling the advance sharing of pilgrim data with accommodation providers.
The ministry said that the initiative reflects its ongoing commitment to enhancing the pilgrim experience and enabling worshippers to perform Hajj rituals with greater ease, supported by modern digital solutions.
In a parallel operational effort, Transport General Authority President Eng. Fawaz Alsahli carried out field inspections across major transport facilities in Jeddah and Makkah to assess readiness for the Hajj season.
In Jeddah, the inspection included the intercity bus station, Haramain High-Speed Railway station, and several car rental offices, with a focus on service quality and regulatory compliance.
Image credits: SPA | Cropped by GBN
In Makkah, Alsahli reviewed pilgrim transport operations at Al-Shumaisi center, the Haramain station in Al Rusaifah, and the Kudai station serving bus and public taxi services. He concluded his field tour with visits to Miqat Qarn Al-Manazil and Al-Bahaitah Security Center to evaluate operational readiness and coordination between relevant authorities.
The combined efforts highlight Saudi Arabia’s integrated approach to managing Hajj operations through digital transformation, infrastructure readiness and coordinated transport and hospitality services to ensure a smooth pilgrimage experience.
