Suadi to spend $87.4bn on Hajj infrastructure

Saudi Arabia has announced its commitment to invest more than $87 billion in upgrading infrastructure in key locations across the country. The Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah, revealed this significant investment, aimed at improving the experience of Muslims performing the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages to the Holy Land.

Speaking at the Organisation of Islamic Countries (OIC) conference in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the Minister highlighted that the Kingdom is allocating over 200 billion Saudi Riyals (approximately $54 billion) for the expansion of the Grand Mosque, which is the largest building in history. In addition, around 60 billion Saudi Riyals (approximately $16.2 billion) has been invested in the two Holy Mosques train project, significantly reducing travel stress between Makkah and Madinah for pilgrims.

Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah further mentioned that the King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah has already received an investment of over 64 billion Riyals (approximately $17.28 billion). These infrastructure enhancements are part of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to facilitate the pilgrimage journeys and improve the overall experience for visitors.

The Minister emphasised the Kingdom’s commitment to ease access for pilgrims by extending the Umrah visa duration from 30 days to 90 days. Furthermore, visa holders are now able to perform Umrah without any hindrance. These measures aim to enhance the ease and convenience of undertaking Umrah, Hajj, and other religious visits.

Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah reiterated the Kingdom’s determination to elevate the standards of Umrah and Hajj by implementing the Pilgrims Experience Programme, a vital component of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, launched by King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud. The country has made significant advancements in the areas of healthcare, security, logistics, and other essential services, all aimed at ensuring the highest quality and efficient service delivery to pilgrims.