Global media coverage with the participation of 3,000 journalists
His Excellency the Saudi Minister of Media, Mr. Salman Al-Dossari, announced a massive and unprecedented media plan to cover this year's Hajj season (1445 AH), emphasizing the mobilization of enormous resources to ensure comprehensive coverage befitting the importance of this great pillar of Islam. This announcement came during a government press conference that highlighted the integrated efforts of various sectors to serve the pilgrims.
Minister Al-Dossari revealed the participation of over 3,000 media professionals from within the Kingdom and abroad, representing more than 150 international and local media outlets. He explained that this large media contingent will work in coordination with over 100 officials representing 26 different government entities, within an integrated framework aimed at conveying a vivid and accurate picture of the Hajj rituals and the Kingdom's efforts in organizing them.
Historical context and importance of the event
These efforts reflect the paramount importance that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia places on the Hajj season, the world's largest annual religious gathering. For decades, the Kingdom has been working to enhance the services provided to pilgrims, and media coverage is an integral part of this system, contributing to showcasing the massive development projects in the holy sites and conveying the noble message of Hajj to the world.
Digital transformation in serving the pilgrims
Al-Dossari affirmed that the Hajj system is managed securely and organizationally using the latest technologies, noting the 100% coverage of the holy sites by the 5G network. This technological advancement not only facilitates the work of media teams by providing ultra-fast connection speeds for live broadcasting and data transfer, but also enhances the pilgrims' experience through smart applications and diverse digital services. He pointed out that the Kingdom ranks first globally in the Digital Readiness Index, which directly impacts the quality of services provided during Hajj.
The “Makkah Route” initiative: Facilitating the Hajj journey
In a related context, the Minister noted that the “Makkah Route” initiative is being implemented for the eighth consecutive year, encompassing 17 entry points in 10 countries. This innovative initiative aims to streamline entry procedures for pilgrims arriving in the Kingdom at their home airports, enabling them to proceed directly to their accommodations upon arrival with ease and convenience. This initiative exemplifies Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to develop innovative solutions that facilitate the Hajj pilgrimage.
The global importance of Hajj and the Kingdom's leading role
The Hajj season is an event of immense religious and humanitarian significance. Internationally, the successful management of the Hajj reinforces the Kingdom's position as a leader of the Islamic world and custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. Extensive media coverage also contributes to building bridges of cultural understanding and highlights the values of tolerance and brotherhood embodied by the Hajj. The press conference, attended by the Minister of Media, also included the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, the Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, the Minister of Transport and Logistics, and the Minister of Health. They reviewed their ministries' preparations for the 1445 AH Hajj season, emphasizing full coordination to ensure the provision of the best possible services to the pilgrims.
