The success of the transportation system during the Hajj season of 1447 AH: figures and statistics
The Public Transport Authority announced the success of its operational and regulatory plans for the transportation system during the 1447 AH Hajj season. Indicators and recorded figures confirmed high levels of readiness and integration among the various modes of transport. This success contributed to smoother movement of pilgrims and improved the quality of services provided to them, ensuring they could perform their rituals in comfort and peace from their arrival in the Kingdom until their departure.
Managing crowds and transportation during the Hajj season is one of the world's greatest logistical challenges. Hosting millions of pilgrims in limited geographical areas within a short timeframe requires strategic planning and advanced infrastructure. Over the decades, Saudi Arabia has invested heavily in developing the transportation sector in the Holy Sites, transforming it from traditional methods into a modern and integrated system encompassing trains, buses, and smart technologies. This reflects its commitment to serving the pilgrims as a key component of Saudi Vision 2030.
Integrated infrastructure to ensure smooth traffic flow
The authority explained that it had prepared a massive fleet to serve pilgrims, including more than 33,000 buses equipped with the latest safety features and compliant with approved quality standards, in addition to providing more than 5,000 taxis. To support this extensive network, 32 intercity bus routes were allocated, operating 1,193 trips weekly using 139 equipped buses, thus providing diverse and reliable transportation options between key locations and the holy sites.
To ensure the highest standards of compliance and safety, the Authority deployed a field team of 300 specialized personnel across 50 key locations to monitor operations and oversight around the clock. These oversight efforts included conducting over 400,000 field inspections and activating more than 950 automated monitoring systems to ensure compliance by transport vehicles in Makkah and Madinah.
Standard performance indicators reflect the success of the transportation system during the Hajj season
The performance figures reflected the exceptional level of services provided, with the transportation system achieving a high compliance rate of 90% with the regulations and general requirements for land transport. Train services maintained a 100% adherence to schedules, while the punctuality rate for intercity bus trips exceeded 96%. These figures were not merely statistics; they translated into a smoother and more convenient Hajj experience for the pilgrims.
As part of its efforts to enhance service quality and ensure rapid response, the Authority addressed over 2,500 reports in Makkah and Madinah. It also conducted more than 13,000 surveys to gauge pilgrim satisfaction with transportation services, aiming for continuous improvement and a better overall experience. The Authority emphasized that this success is a result of collaboration among all relevant entities and reflects the operational and regulatory readiness aimed at providing safe, organized, and reliable transportation services to support pilgrims' spiritual journey.
