Minister of Transport Inspects Preparations for Hajj Season 1446 in Jeddah
In a proactive initiative to ensure the seamless facilitation of Hajj rituals, His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, Engineer Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, conducted an oversight visit today to evaluate the readiness of the transportation and logistics system in Jeddah for the upcoming Hajj season of 1446 AH. This inspection forms part of a comprehensive strategy involving his previous site visits to the sacred cities of Mecca and Medina along with the areas of religious significance.
The primary objective of this visit was to verify the operational readiness of crucial venues that will accommodate the guests of the Almighty, ensuring that all logistical plans are executed in alignment with the directives of the esteemed leadership, which aims to provide comfort and tranquility for the pilgrims. The arrangements are designed to facilitate a smooth experience for Hajj participants from their arrival in the Kingdom until their safe return to their home countries.
During his tour, Minister Al-Jasser examined the Hajj terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, where he assessed the operational workflow and the airport’s preparations to accommodate over 7,000 chartered flights dedicated to the pilgrimage. The emphasis was on ensuring the seamless arrival of pilgrims through effective collaboration with various stakeholders involved in the Hajj operations.
A notable highlight of the visit was the exploration of the airport’s media center situated within the terminal. This center serves as a hub for journalists, providing essential support and resources to cover the arrival and departure phases of the pilgrims throughout the Hajj season.
Additionally, Minister Al-Jasser assessed the operations center for Saudi Airlines at King Abdulaziz International Airport, where he reviewed the role of the integrated guest center in managing flight operations efficiently. The focus was on maintaining punctuality, leveraging qualified local personnel, and utilizing the latest digital technologies. As the operational phase intensifies, the airport will experience heightened activity, transporting Guests of God from diverse international regions to perform their sacred duties.
The itinerary of the visit also encompassed the activities of the Ports Authority at Jeddah Islamic Port. Here, the minister observed the logistical arrangements and operational strategies aimed at accommodating pilgrims arriving by sea. He inspected the arrival and departure halls, which are equipped with 100 passport control counters staffed with trained personnel and advanced technological setups to cater to the needs of the pilgrims.
The port is also outfitted with 300 luggage carts to facilitate passenger baggage handling and features a health monitoring center, catering to the necessary vaccinations and health services for the pilgrims. Special provisions are in place to assist elderly guests and those with medical conditions.
Furthermore, Jeddah Islamic Port plays a significant logistical role in managing various goods, including essential medical and food supplies required for the Hajj season. It is slated to welcome approximately 2.6 million livestock, ensuring that pilgrims have access to the requisite offerings for their sacrificial duties.
In conclusion, the meticulous preparations observed during Minister Al-Jasser’s inspection reflect a comprehensive commitment to excellence in service delivery for Hajj pilgrims. The collaborative efforts amongst various stakeholders signify a well-coordinated approach to ensure that the Hajj experience is comfortable, secure, and memorable for millions of attendees, showcasing the Kingdom’s dedication to facilitating one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. This efficient orchestration not only reaffirms the logistical infrastructure in place but also illustrates the unwavering support from the leadership in enhancing the spiritual experience for every pilgrim.
