Hajj Ministry previews sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah held a press briefing today in Jeddah, where it outlined key features of the sixth edition of the Hajj Conference and Exhibition, set to open on Sunday at the Jeddah Super Dome. The event is held under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and organized by the ministry in cooperation with the Guests of God Service Program, as part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiatives.

Dr. Ghassan bin Rashid Al-Nuwaymi, Assistant Undersecretary for International Relations and official spokesperson for the ministry, said that caring for the Two Holy Mosques and serving pilgrims and Umrah performers has been a longstanding commitment of the Kingdom since its founding. He noted that the pilgrim experience has been enhanced by facilitating rituals, improving service quality, and promoting sustainability, thanks to Saudi Vision 2030.

Al-Nuwaymi explained that the Guests of God Service Program has launched developmental, regulatory, and service projects that support early planning and integration among relevant entities under the supervision of the Supreme Hajj Committee. He described the conference as a key platform for early preparations for the Hajj season, bringing together stakeholders, service providers, and experts to discuss needs, develop solutions, and build partnerships.

He pointed out that the conference has grown annually in scope and content, with previous editions featuring over 1,850 agreements, 310 sessions, and 250 workshops, and attracting more than 570,000 visitors. The sixth edition will see participation from more than 520 entities across government, private, and non-profit sectors, with attendees from over 150 countries. The event will span more than 67,000 square meters and include over 15 main zones and programs.

Al-Nuwaymi stated that the conference’s scientific program is divided into three main tracks: infrastructure and operational services, empowerment and integration, and development and sustainability. Topics will include transport, logistics, housing, health, digital transformation, innovation, and training.

He added that the conference will feature the "Hajj Council" for dialogue among leaders, specialists, and entrepreneurs, as well as an accompanying exhibition covering aviation, transport, hospitality, health, technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship, in addition to a business center, partner platform, and specialized zones.

Al-Nuwaymi announced the launch of the "Awareness and Training Forum" for the first time under the theme "From Awareness to Empowerment," aimed at developing awareness tools, enhancing training programs, and boosting the readiness of those serving pilgrims.

He emphasized that innovation will be highlighted through the "Innovation Zone," the "Future of Hajj Innovations Camp," and programs for startups and innovators, with the goal of developing solutions and connecting innovators with the needs of the Hajj ecosystem.

Al-Nuwaymi explained that the conference aims to turn meetings into agreements, contracts, and action plans, positively impacting the pilgrim experience. He stressed that early planning and service testing contribute to a smooth pilgrimage journey.

He concluded by saying that the theme "From Makkah to the World" reflects the status of Makkah and the Saudi experience in managing Hajj and Umrah seasons, developing services, and leveraging technology, enabling the development of solutions and building partnerships with global experts.