Saudi Arabia has approved plans to build a dedicated airport in Makkah, aiming to improve travel for millions of pilgrims who visit the holy city each year.
The announcement was confirmed by Saleh Al-Rasheed, CEO of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites. He said that all major approvals, including economic and strategic planning, have been completed.
The project will now move forward through partnerships with private companies and will be built to international standards.
Currently, most pilgrims arrive through King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, which is about 70 kilometers from Makkah.
During peak seasons like Hajj and Umrah, this airport handles a very large number of travelers, often leading to congestion and long travel times.
The new airport in Makkah is expected to reduce this pressure and make journeys smoother and faster. It will also improve transport links and help manage the increasing number of visitors coming each year.
This project is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader Vision 2030, which focuses on modernizing infrastructure, boosting tourism, and improving services for pilgrims.
Once completed, the airport is likely to play a key role in enhancing the overall pilgrimage experience.
