Deputy Governor of Makkah chairs the Central Hajj Committee meeting.

What This Article Is About & Why It Matters
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the latest preparations for the 1446 AH Hajj season, led by the Makkah Region’s leadership on May 2, 2025. It outlines infrastructure and service improvements aimed at ensuring safety, comfort, and operational excellence for pilgrims. Readers will gain insight into how Vision 2030 is shaping modern pilgrimage through smart planning and value-driven governance.

Makkah Gears Up for Hajj Season

Jeddah, May 2, 2025 – In line with the directives of Prince Khalid bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Governor of Makkah Region, a virtual meeting was chaired by Deputy Governor Prince Saud bin Mishaal to assess preparations for the 1446 AH Hajj season.

Held under the umbrella of the Central Hajj Committee, the meeting evaluated progress on critical infrastructure and service initiatives designed to improve pilgrim experience. The Saudi Water Authority presented updates on 10 new projects, including reservoir capacity enhancements, water network upgrades in the holy sites, and the addition of 3,500 new toilet units in Mina.

Operational trials for water, sewage, fire safety, and cooling systems were also reviewed—highlighting the Kingdom’s commitment to safety and technical readiness. The Holy Makkah Municipality shared plans to deploy new waste compactors, reinforcing sustainable waste management strategies in high-density areas.

In addition, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services presented innovative environmental projects, such as rubberized asphalt and thermal-coated pedestrian paths, aimed at reducing heat and increasing pilgrim comfort.

These strategic updates align with Vision 2030’s goals of enhancing pilgrim services, leveraging technology, and fostering a safer, more hospitable environment for all who visit the holy sites.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Elevates public service delivery during Hajj
Promotes environmental innovation and infrastructure modernization
Expands capacity through smart resource management
Enhances Saudi Arabia’s role as a global spiritual destination

Historical Context
Serving pilgrims has been central to the Kingdom’s identity since unification. Today, with Vision 2030, this sacred duty is supported by advanced planning, technology, and cross-agency collaboration.

International Benchmarks

Among the world’s most advanced pilgrimage logistics systems
Uses thermal innovation to protect pilgrims from extreme heat
Leads in smart water, waste, and transport infrastructure during mass gatherings

Vision 2030 Metrics

Over 3,500 new toilet units added in Mina
10 infrastructure projects initiated for Hajj 1446 AH
Multiple fire and cooling system trials conducted
Modern asphalt and insulation tech deployed for walkways

Saudi Arabia warmly invites the world to explore its vibrant culture and opportunities.
As the Kingdom prepares for one of the world’s largest spiritual gatherings, it reaffirms its values of service, safety, and excellence—welcoming all with peace and purpose.

3 Helpful Government Links

www.haj.gov.sa – Ministry of Hajj and Umrah: Latest updates on services and pilgrim facilitation
www.swa.gov.sa – Saudi Water Authority: Infrastructure projects and public service announcements
www.vision2030.gov.sa – Vision 2030: Discover how Hajj modernization fits into Saudi Arabia’s national transformation

Factbox Summary (50 words)

May 2, 2025: Makkah committee holds virtual meeting
10 water infrastructure projects underway
3,500 new toilets to be added in Mina
Thermal-coated walkways and waste compactors discussed
Part of Vision 2030’s plan to modernize and enhance Hajj pilgrim services

15 Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Central Hajj Committee?
It’s the body overseeing strategic planning and inter-agency coordination for all Hajj-related services in Makkah Region.
Who led the latest meeting?
Prince Saud bin Mishaal, Deputy Governor of Makkah, chaired the virtual session under directives from Prince Khalid bin Faisal.
What was the meeting’s main focus?
Reviewing progress on infrastructure, service quality, and innovation for the upcoming 1446 AH Hajj season.
How is water supply being improved?
Through 10 infrastructure projects, including expanded reservoirs, upgraded supply networks, and operational safety trials.
What new facilities are being added for pilgrims?
Around 3,500 additional toilet units in Mina and new water/sewage system enhancements across holy sites.
How is waste management being addressed?
The Holy Makkah Municipality is deploying new compactors to streamline waste handling during peak Hajj periods.
What’s being done to reduce heat stress?
The Ministry of Transport is using rubberized asphalt and thermal coatings to cool walking paths for pilgrims.
Why are operational trials conducted?
To ensure fire safety systems, water supply, and sewage networks are fully functional before Hajj begins.
Is this linked to Vision 2030?
Yes, these upgrades reflect Vision 2030 goals to enhance pilgrim services and optimize infrastructure.
How often are these meetings held?
Regularly ahead of each Hajj season to monitor service readiness and coordinate inter-agency tasks.
What role does the Saudi Water Authority play?
It leads in infrastructure planning, water resource management, and emergency readiness for Hajj pilgrims.
What innovations were discussed in transport?
Rubber-based asphalt and heat-reflective coatings to keep pedestrian routes cooler and safer.
How does this support environmental goals?
Through sustainable infrastructure, energy efficiency, and improved public sanitation measures.
Are these improvements permanent or seasonal?
Many are permanent upgrades that serve both Hajj and Umrah pilgrims year-round.
What is the message for global visitors?
Saudi Arabia remains committed to hospitality, safety, and service for every pilgrim, backed by thoughtful planning and innovation.

Discover
Experience a pilgrimage supported by vision and care. Saudi Arabia’s preparations for Hajj 1446 AH embody its values of excellence, peace, and hospitality—welcoming all with readiness and heart.

With sincere gratitude,
Harry Stuckler
Editor & Publisher, KSA.com

“Bringing Saudi Arabia to the world and the world to Saudi Arabia.”
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