Saudi aviation chief highlights airport upgrades and Hajj services at Jeddah conference

President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation Abdulaziz Al-Duailej affirmed that serving Hajj and Umrah pilgrims is a national responsibility and a top priority for Saudi leadership, noting that all resources are being mobilized to facilitate the rituals for pilgrims, Umrah performers, and visitors.

Speaking at the opening ministerial session of the Hajj 2026 Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah, Al-Duailej stated that around 94% of pilgrims arrive in the Kingdom via air, and that the civil aviation sector is undergoing a major transformation as part of Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to position the Kingdom as a global aviation hub.

Airport development projects

• Upgrading the Hajj and Umrah terminal complex at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to increase capacity to 16 million passengers annually.
• Renovating Terminal 4 at King Abdulaziz International Airport, targeting a capacity of 15 million passengers per year.
• Expansion projects at Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah to raise capacity to 18 million passengers annually.
• Expanding the international departures hall at Taif International Airport.

Key initiatives for pilgrims

• The "Traveler Without Luggage" service to ease pilgrim and Umrah travel.
• Connecting pilgrim flights with the Haramain High-Speed Railway.
• The "Distinguished Path" initiative to enhance the travel experience.
• Streamlining the handling of Zamzam water bottles.
• The "Multazim" award to encourage airlines' regulatory compliance and operational excellence.

Al-Duailej explained that these achievements reflect an integrated institutional effort, highlighting the leadership's commitment, the oversight of the Minister of Interior and Chairman of the Supreme Hajj Committee, and coordination with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and other relevant entities.

He also pointed to the "Makkah Route" initiative led by the Ministry of Interior as a model of integration, expediting entry procedures for pilgrims before their arrival in the Kingdom and ensuring a smooth transition to their destinations.

The aviation chief emphasized that the success of the civil aviation system is measured by the ease and quality of the pilgrim's journey and the efficiency of airport operations, with the goal of ensuring a safe, seamless experience and positive memories, in line with the Pilgrim Experience Program and Vision 2030 objectives.