The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia continues its pioneering efforts in developing the services system. Hajj The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is launching innovative initiatives aimed at enhancing performance efficiency and providing a seamless and comprehensive experience for pilgrims. In this context, the “Nusk” platform, overseen by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and the “Makkah Route” initiative, implemented by the Ministry of Interior in collaboration with several government agencies, stand out as prime examples of the successful integration of technology and organization to facilitate Hajj and Umrah procedures.
Nusk platform: Digital transformation in serving pilgrims and Umrah performers
The Nusk platform is considered one of the most prominent examples of digital transformation in serving pilgrims, having witnessed remarkable growth in just one year. After reaching 12 million users, this number has surged to over 40 million users across 190 countries worldwide, with more than 90% of them located outside the Kingdom. Furthermore, the Nusk app has surpassed 26 million downloads, reflecting its significant success in providing digital services that facilitate Umrah and visitation procedures.
Through this platform, more than 17 million Umrah permits and 13 million permits to visit the Prophet’s Mosque have been issued, within more than 130 digital services including electronic booking, permit issuance, guidance, and registration, which enhances the visitor experience in performing their religious rituals more easily and quickly.
The “Makkah Route” initiative: Improving the pilgrim experience from their airport to their accommodation
On the ground, the “Makkah Route” initiative witnessed remarkable success during the 2025 Hajj season, serving 314,337 pilgrims through 899 flights that landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah. The initiative was implemented in dedicated terminals within these two selected international airports to streamline procedures and ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for pilgrims from the moment they arrived in the Kingdom.
The working mechanism of the “Makkah Road”
The Makkah Route Initiative aims to facilitate the reception of pilgrims and streamline their procedures with high efficiency. This process begins in the pilgrims' countries of origin, where visas are issued electronically, biometric data is collected, and health requirements are verified. Luggage is also coded and sorted based on transportation and accommodation arrangements within the Kingdom, ensuring the safe passage of pilgrims and their belongings.
Upon arrival in the Kingdom, pilgrims are transported directly to buses designated to take them to their accommodations in Mecca and Medina via specific routes, with luggage being delivered to their accommodations easily.
Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025: Reviewing National Experiences in Service
The Hajj 2025 Conference and Exhibition, to be held in Jeddah from November 9 to 12, is expected to highlight the significant developments in the Kingdom's Hajj and Umrah system. The exhibition is a key platform to showcase prominent national initiatives, such as "Nusk" and "Makkah Route," emphasizing the integration of digital and on-the-ground solutions in serving pilgrims.
Vision 2030
These developments come within the framework of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which has made serving pilgrims a fundamental part of its national strategy. Through these initiatives, the Kingdom seeks to enhance its position as a global leader in crowd management and provide the best possible experience for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. Vision 2030 aims to provide integrated services and foster innovation in the religious tourism sector, reflecting the Kingdom's ongoing commitment to ensuring the utmost comfort and safety for pilgrims.
Thanks to these efforts, Saudi Arabia continues to consolidate its position as a major destination for serving pilgrims, enhancing its leading role in organizing Hajj and Umrah globally, and confirming its commitment to providing the best religious and cultural experience for visitors to the Two Holy Mosques.
