Introduction to the Hajj Media Forum
In a move reflecting the ongoing development in managing and organizing the world's largest annual human gathering, Saudi Minister of Media, Mr. Salman bin Yousef Al-Dosari, announced during a government press conference the launch of the third edition of the "Hajj Media Forum" initiative. This strategic initiative falls under the umbrella of the Unified Media Operations Center for Hajj and serves as a leading platform bringing together media professionals from around the world. The forum is scheduled to take place from the 3rd to the 6th of Dhul-Hijjah 1447 AH (May 20-23, 2026) at the Makkah Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Exhibition and Events Center, with a broad strategic partnership encompassing 25 entities from both the public and private sectors.
Historical context and the importance of media in Hajj
Historically, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has placed great importance on serving pilgrims, a commitment firmly rooted since its founding. With the launch of Saudi Vision 2030, the “Pilgrims Service Program” emerged as one of the most important executive programs aimed at bringing about a qualitative leap in the Hajj and Umrah experience. In this context, the “Hajj Media Forum” is crucial as a vital tool for conveying these tremendous efforts to the world. The media is no longer merely a conduit for news, but has become an essential partner in showcasing digital readiness, advanced infrastructure, and highly efficient crowd management, thus reflecting the Kingdom’s positive image regionally and internationally and reassuring pilgrims’ families in their home countries.
Key events and areas of the forum
The forum is a comprehensive media community and environment equipped with the latest technologies to support journalists in their coverage of the Hajj season. It includes several interactive areas, most notably:
- Hajj Window: A space that offers the visitor an immersive visual experience that reflects the spirituality of Hajj and the grandeur of the holy sites.
- Transformation Exhibition: A platform showcasing transformative projects dedicated to serving pilgrims in a visually creative way, through innovative pavilions for governmental and private entities.
- Media Community: A dedicated area to provide a shared workspace, aimed at building relationships and exchanging experiences between local and international media professionals.
The forum also includes a press briefing platform and studios equipped technically and technologically to the highest international standards to facilitate live broadcasting and conducting press interviews.
Participating entities and expected impact
The “Transformation Exhibition” features broad participation from major sovereign and service entities, including the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, and the General Presidency for Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque. Also participating are the Guests of God Service Program, the “Aman” initiative, digital infrastructure partner “Salam Communications,” and main partner “Lexus.”.
This massive gathering aims to unify media efforts and enhance collaboration between the Ministry of Information, its affiliated organizations, and various media outlets. The anticipated impact of this coordination extends beyond the local sphere to the international arena, ensuring the delivery of a reliable, accurate, and unified media message that counters rumors and highlights the exceptional services provided to pilgrims.
Previous successes and registration link
The organization of the third edition comes as a continuation of the resounding success of the previous two editions. The forum has attracted over 12,000 media professionals and visitors in its past sessions, and has witnessed the participation of 150 local, regional, and international media outlets. These efforts have resulted in the production of more than 3,000 diverse media reports, with the participation of more than 15 governmental and private entities.
For all media professionals and those interested in covering this prominent Islamic and global event, you can register and attend the forum's activities via the official electronic link dedicated to this purpose: https://hub.media.gov.sa.
