Cairo – In preparation for Hajj 2025, Saudi Arabia is continuing its acclaimed “Mecca Route” initiative, which has been designed to simplify and expedite pilgrimage procedures—particularly for elderly pilgrims. This year, the program continues its focus on offering compassionate care and smoother logistics for senior travelers undertaking the sacred journey.
Now in its seventh consecutive year, the Mecca Route is operational in 11 international airports across seven countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Morocco, Bangladesh, Turkey, and Côte d’Ivoire. The initiative ensures elderly and physically challenged pilgrims are given priority, allowing them to navigate the travel process with minimal stress.
As part of the service, elderly pilgrims benefit from:
Dedicated lanes and fast-tracked procedures at departure airports
Transportation to waiting lounges before boarding Saudi-bound flights
On-site staff support to handle all necessary pre-travel documentation and health protocols
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The program allows pilgrims to complete vital steps such as fingerprinting, visa issuance, and passport control in their home countries, significantly easing the arrival process in Saudi Arabia.
Additionally, luggage is pre-tagged and sorted before departure, ensuring seamless delivery to pilgrims’ accommodations upon arrival. Once in Saudi Arabia, pilgrims are transported directly to their residences in Mecca or Medina via specially arranged buses running on designated routes.
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The Mecca Route initiative represents a collaborative effort by multiple Saudi government bodies, including:
Ministry of Health
Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
Ministry of Information
General Authority of Civil Aviation
Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority
General Directorate of Passports
This unified approach ensures a holistic and dignified travel experience for pilgrims, with a special emphasis on those most in need of additional care.
As Hajj 2025 approaches, the Mecca Route continues to reflect Saudi Arabia’s dedication to serving the global Muslim community with efficiency, compassion, and respect, reinforcing its status as a guardian of the Two Holy Mosques.