MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia’s Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites (RCMC) has announced full operational readiness for the Hajj season 2026 through an integrated service ecosystem and advanced infrastructure at the holy sites.
The actions are aimed at ensuring pilgrims’ comfort, tranquillity, and a seamless spiritual journey from arrival to completion of Hajj rituals, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Tuesday.
Through Kidana Development Company, the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites has delivered projects worth approximately $1.6 billion (SAR 6 billion) over the past four years, aimed at upgrading key pilgrimage sites and improving accommodation standards.
This year’s enhancements include expanding rest areas and pedestrian pathways to 66,000 square meters, alongside the planting of 60,000 trees to help regulate temperatures and support environmental sustainability.
Climate-focused measures also feature the installation of 400 high-efficiency mist fans in the Jamarat area and the shading of 105,000 square meters of walkways.
In Mina, restroom capacity has been increased to 7,800 units, cutting waiting times by 75 percent.
Healthcare services have also been strengthened, with the capacity of Mina Emergency Hospital expanded by 200 percent and improvements made to facilities at Jabal Al-Rahmah in Arafat.
Transport preparations include a central automated control system and a fleet of 24,000 buses, among them 2,500 designated for arrivals and 400 operating within Makkah across 14 routes.
Overall, infrastructure, utilities, and key ritual sites are fully prepared, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s commitment to delivering a safe, efficient, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj experience.
This year’s Hajj is expected to take place between May 25 and May 30, subject to the sighting of the moon, which determines the start of the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah.
