Urban transformation in Makkah boosts future economy, enhances pilgrim services

Makkah is undergoing an unprecedented urban and economic transformation, with rapid development reshaping the city and turning it into a global model that balances its spiritual significance with modern growth. These efforts support the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to improve quality of life and enhance services for pilgrims.

According to the 2025 Pilgrim Experience Program reports, the holy city has implemented 87 initiatives in partnership with over 60 entities, achieving 100% compliance. Makkah welcomed more than 19.5 million international pilgrims and visitors, including 18.03 million Umrah performers and 1.5 million Hajj pilgrims, marking a 114% increase in Umrah visitors compared to 2022. Satisfaction rates among pilgrims and Umrah performers surpassed Vision 2030 targets, reaching 91% and 94% respectively.

Additionally, the number of qualified historical sites and cultural destinations in Makkah and Madinah has risen to 87, attracting over 55 million visits. Some 184,569 volunteers participated in serving pilgrims. The total number of visas issued for Umrah, visits, and other purposes reached 15.03 million, with Umrah visas accounting for 83% of the total.

Flagship projects drive comprehensive development

In recent years, Makkah has seen the launch of strategic projects such as the Masar destination, Jabal Omar development, and neighborhood improvement programs. These initiatives have increased capacity, upgraded road networks and public facilities, and enhanced the urban environment, boosting the city's readiness to accommodate growing numbers of pilgrims and visitors.

Dr. Musab bin Kamal Al-Subhi, Dean of the College of Business and Economics at Umm Al-Qura University, noted that the urban renaissance has shifted Makkah toward a more diverse and sustainable economy, increased its investment appeal, and created new economic opportunities in line with the rising number of pilgrims.

Meanwhile, Dr. Omar Osrah, Dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture at Umm Al-Qura University, emphasized that Makkah’s religious and historical significance has necessitated advanced planning and engineering solutions to balance urban expansion with the preservation of Islamic identity, highlighting the use of smart technologies in managing facilities, crowds, and services.

Digital transformation and sustainable economic growth

As part of its digital transformation, Makkah is moving toward a smart city model by leveraging artificial intelligence and data analytics in facility and service management. This shift aims to improve operational efficiency, support decision-making, and enhance safety for residents and visitors.

The Pilgrim Experience Program indicators show that Pakistan, Indonesia, and Egypt topped the list of countries whose citizens arrived on Umrah visas in 2025, reflecting the geographic expansion of pilgrim flows and the need to further develop operational systems to keep pace with this growth.

Development projects have stimulated economic activity, created direct and indirect job opportunities, and encouraged investment in housing, hospitality, retail, and logistics. These efforts have also supported the growth of small and medium enterprises, increasing the contribution of sectors serving pilgrims to the local economy.

Makkah among the world’s top cities for international visitors

Makkah has achieved a prominent international standing, ranking fifth globally in the annual Pilgrim Experience Program report’s index of cities receiving the most international visitors. This reflects the city’s advanced infrastructure and operational capabilities.

These achievements confirm that Makkah’s urban renaissance is now a comprehensive development project, integrating urban planning, economic growth, digital transformation, and sustainability. This enhances the city’s readiness to continue serving pilgrims and improves quality of life for both residents and visitors.