Makkah: Saudi Arabia has approved plans to develop an airport in Makkah, marking a significant step in expanding transport infrastructure and improving access for millions of pilgrims.
Saleh Al-Rasheed, chief executive of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites, said strategic and economic directions for the project have been finalised, with the aim of building a facility to global standards.
As reported by Saudi Gazette, Al-Rasheed said in remarks to Harvard Business Review that the airport will be developed through private sector partnerships, without compromising the feasibility of nearby airports such as King Abdulaziz International Airport.
Early-stage project under Vision 2030
The airport remains in the early planning and investment phase, with feasibility studies completed but no construction timeline announced.
The project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy to increase Haj and Umrah capacity and improve connectivity to the holy city. A dedicated airport in Makkah is expected to reduce travel time for pilgrims, who currently arrive via Jeddah, located around 80 to 90 kilometres away.
Plans for the Makkah Metro are also progressing, with feasibility studies and preliminary designs completed to strengthen links between key religious sites.
Smart mobility and transport upgrades
Authorities are rolling out broader initiatives to improve services and mobility across the city.
The “Smart Makkah” programme uses artificial intelligence to manage crowd movement in and around the Grand Mosque, including predictive systems to ease congestion at key points such as the Jamarat Bridge.
Public transport continues to expand. The Makkah bus network operates about 400 buses across 12 routes, serving more than 430 stops and four central stations. Since its launch in February 2022, it has carried over 185 million passengers on more than 3.8 million trips.
The “Makkah Taxi” service has also been introduced, featuring modern vehicles equipped with tracking systems, electronic payments, and electric and hybrid options.
Infrastructure and pilgrim facilities expanded
Major sections of Makkah’s ring roads have been completed and linked to routes leading to the Grand Mosque and holy sites, improving traffic flow.
Upgrades are under way at key pilgrimage locations, including Arafat and Mina. Projects include enhanced sites, multi-level tent facilities, new residential towers for pilgrims, and a 200-bed emergency hospital.
Sustainability measures are also being implemented, including tree planting, shaded walkways and improved water and waste management systems, which authorities say have delivered significant savings.
Officials said the developments are expected to boost private sector participation, support economic growth and enhance the overall pilgrim experience, with a target of raising satisfaction levels above 90 per cent.
The airport and metro projects are set to play a central role in reshaping mobility in Makkah as Saudi Arabia continues to invest in long-term infrastructure.
