In a move set to revolutionise the Hajj experience, Saudi Arabia is gearing up to trial flying taxis and drones for pilgrims embarking on the sacred journey this year.
The initiative, spearheaded by Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Transport and Logistic Services Saleh al-Jasser, aims to enhance the comfort and convenience of millions of pilgrims arriving from across the globe.
In an exclusive interview with Al Arabiya, Minister Saleh al-Jasser announced the imminent testing of flying taxis and drones during the upcoming Hajj season. He underscored the intense competition among transportation companies vying to deliver practical solutions in the years to come, marking a significant shift towards modern modes of commuting for pilgrims.
Highlighting the commitment to innovation, Minister al-Jasser stressed the thorough examination of integrating flying taxis and drones as a permanent fixture in future facilitation initiatives. He emphasized the importance of capitalizing on the potential of these cutting-edge technologies to optimize the pilgrimage experience for all guests.
The announcement has garnered praise from international quarters, with Pakistan’s Religious Ministry’s spokesperson Muhammad Umar commending Saudi Arabia’s dedication to modernizing the pilgrimage experience. Umar lauded Saudi proactive measures, including the Hajj Portal, Nusuk app, pre-booking of Riazal Jannah, and implementation of biometric e-visas, as testament to their unwavering commitment to pilgrims’ comfort and convenience.
The Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, draws millions of Muslims to the sacred city of Makkah annually. This year, with the anticipated start of the Hajj season on June 14th, Saudi Arabia’s innovative approach promises to redefine the journey for pilgrims worldwide, ensuring a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience.
As Saudi Arabia continues to pave the way for technological advancements in pilgrimage facilitation, collaborative efforts between nations hold the promise of further enhancing the transformative nature of the Hajj pilgrimage, ushering in a new era of connectivity and convenience for pilgrims across the globe.
