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Riyadh: The national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, Saudia Airlines, is dramatically reshaping the Hajj pilgrimage experience by introducing innovative services and comprehensive travel solutions for 2025 and beyond. This initiative marks a significant departure from traditional roles, positioning Saudia not only as an airline but as a complete service partner for millions of pilgrims worldwide.
Saudia is making a historic leap this year by expanding its operations beyond air travel to encompass a broader range of services for the Hajj pilgrimage. The airline’s new strategy includes dedicated flight operations, ground services, and hospitality, aiming to enhance the overall experience for pilgrims undertaking this important spiritual journey.
In preparation for the 2025 Hajj season, Saudia has allocated over one million seats, supported by a modern fleet of 158 aircraft. The airline plans to capture a market share of up to 35%, serving pilgrims from over 100 global destinations. The end-to-end travel experience promises to maximize comfort and efficiency, with streamlined processes from ticket issuance to arrival and departure.
To ensure smooth operations, Saudia is coordinating closely with public and private sector partners across all airport touchpoints. Over 11,000 frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians will be mobilized to support pilgrims throughout a 74-day operational window.
H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia, emphasized the importance of Hajj as a national priority. He stated that the airline is proud to extend its role beyond air operations, aiming to deliver a holistic experience that meets the highest standards of care and hospitality.
Saudia’s investment of over SAR 100 million in Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites includes special accommodation, dedicated rest areas, and multilingual staff to facilitate seamless communication. This investment is part of a broader effort to redefine Hajj service delivery and set a new standard for excellence.
A standout innovation is the launch of “The Coolest Ihram,” a high-tech garment designed to provide comfort in extreme conditions. Developed with Landor and brrr®, the garment incorporates patented cooling minerals and rapid-drying technology, offering a safer environment for pilgrims. It will be available from June 2025.
Onboard, pilgrims can expect diverse meal options, timely prayer announcements, and instructional programs developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. Saudia also provides accessible transportation and medical services for those with special needs, ensuring inclusive access to the pilgrimage.
Saudia Group has launched the official Saudia Hajj and Umrah platform, providing real-time updates and showcasing new products and services. By integrating scale, service, and smart innovation, Saudia is not only supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals but is also reimagining the Hajj experience for millions.