Under Minister Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah's direction, the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has undergone a massive change. Epitomizing Saudi Arabia's great dedication to its responsibility as the guardian of the Two Holy Mosques, his efforts have driven the Kingdom to new heights in offering outstanding services to millions of pilgrims every year. The innovations made under his guidance demonstrate the Kingdom's objective of further improving the pilgrimage experience while maintaining its spiritual essence.
The implementation of technology to enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of Hajj and Umrah services has been a significant accomplishment. The ministry started a completely digitized Umrah Visa issuing system, reducing the processing time from weeks to only few minutes.
The yearly issuance of Umrah visas by the Kingdom reached over 13 million by 2023, demonstrating a significant rise in both capacity and accessibility. Digital platforms like Nusuk have made it possible for pilgrims to plan and manage their journeys seamlessly, including reserving accommodations, transportation, and services at holy sites, all through a single platform. A pillar of Saudi Vision 2030, this digital transformation is well suited to the ministry's aim to serve 30 million Umrah pilgrims annually by 2030.
Another main focus of the ministry's efforts has been inclusivity. Hajj quotas have been extended to allow a more varied group of pilgrims representing the global Muslim community. In 2023, Saudi Arabia welcomed approximately 1.8 million pilgrims from over 160 nations. Initiatives have been introduced to make the holy journey accessible to everyone, including the elderly and disabled. To meet the needs of pilgrims requiring additional care, facilities such as electric wheelchairs, special paths, and trained volunteers have been established.
To help the increasing number of pilgrims, the ministry has also supervised significant infrastructure initiatives. The Grand Mosque in Makkah been expanded to accommodate more than 2.5 million worshippers at once. Furthermore, the improvements made in the holy sites of Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafat have simplified the pilgrimage, with easing traffic and improving safety. The Haramain High-Speed Railway has become an essential link between Makkah and Madinah, moving over seven million passengers each year and cutting journey time to two hours.
Technology has been instrumental in further improving the facilities and services for the Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, especially with the introduction of smart ideas and artificial intelligence (AI). Real-time monitoring technologies and AI-driven crowd control systems have been installed to guarantee pilgrim safety and well-being. Advanced communication networks have enabled immediate coordination between service providers and authorities, thereby improving the entire experience.
Sustainability has also become a focus of the ministry's activities, in line with Saudi Arabia's overarching environmental objectives. There are serious efforts to reduce single-use plastics, support the use of environmentally friendly materials, and apply sustainable energy solutions at the holy sites. Solar energy, for example, is increasingly being used in Makkah and Madinah, thus lowering environmental footprints.
The Kingdom has made efforts to develop a pilgrimage experience that combines spirituality and modern efficiency. The use of cutting-edge technology, infrastructure expansion, and a dedication to diversification represent a forward-thinking vision that respects the holy nature of Hajj and Umrah while meeting the requirements of pilgrims.
The success of these projects is the best proof of the impact of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. Early achievements, such as a large rise in pilgrim capacity, the implementation of digital services, and the modernization of holy places, demonstrate the Kingdom's commitment to leading the world in religious tourism.
This projects and developments confirms the Kingdom's leadership as the center of the Islamic world.
