Makkah, Saudi Arabia – January 18, 2025 – The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites showcased its forward-thinking vision for a sustainable, smart, and innovative future at the fourth Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025, held in Makkah. The exhibition highlighted the commission's ambitious initiatives aimed at transforming Makkah into a modern, sustainable city while enhancing the experience for pilgrims. The commission’s participation in the event underscored its commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which emphasizes the development of infrastructure, technology, and services to elevate Makkah’s status as a global hub for millions of pilgrims each year.
The exhibition featured six key sections, each offering a glimpse into the comprehensive transformation underway in Makkah. The "Discover Makkah" section took visitors on a journey through the rich history of Makkah’s landmarks, shedding light on the commission’s ongoing efforts to restore and preserve historical sites. This section also highlighted the evolution of services for pilgrims, tracing the significant improvements made since the reign of King Abdulaziz, which have significantly enhanced the overall pilgrim experience.
The "Between Past and Present" section offered a captivating comparison between Makkah’s historical significance and its modern transformation. Through engaging displays, this section illustrated how the Kingdom has continuously developed the holy sites to ensure a smoother, more efficient pilgrimage. It also emphasized how these developments have revolutionized the pilgrim journey, moving it from one of significant hardship to a seamless and transformative experience, with a focus on innovation and convenience.
The "Makkah Architecture" section celebrated the city’s architectural heritage, showcasing traditional construction methods and the use of locally sourced materials. This area underscored the importance of preserving the city’s cultural identity while integrating modern architecture and engineering techniques to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims. The section also highlighted the commission’s efforts to ensure the city’s infrastructure complements both the historical significance and future growth of Makkah.
In the "Transportation and Mobility" section, the commission detailed its comprehensive plans to enhance connectivity within Makkah. This includes the development of a robust transportation network, featuring eight new intersections, 12 bridges, and 19 ramps to improve the flow of traffic and accessibility for both residents and pilgrims. These efforts are vital in accommodating the large influx of visitors during peak pilgrimage seasons and ensuring a safe, efficient transport system that can handle the city’s growing needs.
The "Smart Makkah" section illustrated the integration of cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, geospatial data, and smart systems, into Makkah’s infrastructure. These innovations are being used to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and improve the overall experience for pilgrims. By embracing smart technologies, the Royal Commission is not only modernizing the city but also ensuring that Makkah becomes a model of innovation in the region.
Finally, the "Mega Projects and Investment Opportunities" section focused on key initiatives designed to elevate Makkah’s global standing, such as the Jabal Omar development, the Haramain High-Speed Railway, and the Hira Cultural District. These projects are part of the commission's strategy to attract both local and international investment while promoting sustainable development in the region. The commission’s efforts to create a business-friendly environment are aimed at ensuring that Makkah continues to thrive as a global city, welcoming a projected 30 million pilgrims by 2030.
The participation of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites at the Hajj Conference and Exhibition reinforces its commitment to shaping Makkah’s future as a modern, smart, and sustainable city. Through visionary projects, the adoption of innovative technologies, and a focus on infrastructure development, the commission is making significant strides toward its goal of enhancing the pilgrimage experience and ensuring that Makkah remains a central pillar of religious and cultural significance in the Islamic world.
