On September 9, 2024, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz launched the "Meeting to Initiate Planning Efforts for Hajj 1446 AH" in Jeddah, under the patronage of Prince Khalid bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, focusing on improving operational standards and procedures for the upcoming Hajj season.
The meeting reviewed achievements from Hajj 1445 AH, including key initiatives such as the Nusuk card, Hajj flights from Taif, and transportation improvements, while emphasizing the need for enhanced worker efficiency and immediate solutions to challenges.
The event featured a workshop on refining service standards and data-sharing practices, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals of providing exceptional service and ensuring a seamless experience for pilgrims.
On September 9, 2024, in Jeddah, the Deputy Governor of Makkah, Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, inaugurated the "Meeting to Initiate Planning Efforts for Hajj 1446 AH." This significant event, held under the patronage of Prince Khalid bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz, Governor of Makkah Region and Chairman of the Central Hajj Committee, was organized by the Hajj Projects Office as part of the Service of the Pilgrim Experience Program, a key initiative aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
The meeting convened 60 key entities involved in the Hajj system, with the participation of senior officials from various sectors. Prince Saud bin Mishaal officially announced the commencement of planning activities for the Hajj season 1446 AH, underscoring the crucial importance of elevating operational standards, refining existing systems, and enhancing procedures. He emphasized the need to boost worker efficiency within the Hajj and Umrah sectors and to develop immediate, practical solutions to emerging challenges.
In his address, Prince Saud conveyed Prince Khalid's deep appreciation for the organizations dedicated to serving pilgrims. He acknowledged their relentless efforts to ensure the comfort and well-being of those undertaking the sacred journey. The Deputy Governor highlighted the Kingdom’s leadership’s steadfast commitment to providing exceptional services, adhering to the highest standards, and maintaining a focus on continuous improvement.
Prince Saud outlined that the primary objective of the gathering was to build upon the successes achieved during Hajj 1445 AH. He stressed that the Kingdom is blessed with the ability to serve pilgrims and facilitate the fulfillment of Islam’s fifth pillar with peace, security, and comfort. His remarks reaffirmed the Kingdom’s top priority of early preparation for the upcoming Hajj season to meet its responsibilities toward visitors to the holiest sites on earth.
The meeting also provided an opportunity to review the achievements from Hajj 1445 AH, which included a range of significant improvements and initiatives. These accomplishments encompassed the implementation of 300 operational plans designed to enhance overall readiness, the activation of the Nusuk card for pilgrims, successful trial operations of Hajj flights from Taif International Airport, the expansion of the Makkah Route Initiative, partial opening of the direct Jeddah-Makkah road, improved transportation between Mina and the Grand Mosque, and the application of heat-reducing paints near Namirah Mosque.
Looking ahead to Hajj 1446 AH, the session focused on comprehensive readiness plans, operational performance indicators, and quality measurement standards. The event featured a workshop titled "Alignment on Services, Roles, and Main Features," aimed at refining service standards and enhancing data-sharing practices to ensure readiness and efficiency. This proactive approach reflects a commitment to continuous improvement and a dedication to providing a seamless and elevated experience for all pilgrims.
