Saudi Arabia’s Makkah Route Initiative continues to transform the Hajj experience for pilgrims worldwide, particularly elderly and disabled travelers, as preparations intensify for the 2026 Hajj season beginning on May 25.
One of the most touching scenes highlighted this year involved a 100-year-old Moroccan pilgrim departing from Rabat-Salé International Airport while leaning on a walking stick and quietly reciting the Talbiyah prayer before boarding his flight to Saudi Arabia.
Surrounded by Saudi staff providing special assistance, the elderly pilgrim completed all travel and passport procedures smoothly within his home country, fulfilling what appeared to be a lifelong dream of performing Hajj.
Completing Procedures Before Arrival
Launched in 2017 under Saudi Vision 2030, the Makkah Route Initiative allows pilgrims to complete immigration, customs, and health procedures in their home countries before departure.
This enables pilgrims to arrive in Saudi Arabia as if they were on a domestic flight, avoiding lengthy arrival formalities.
The initiative also handles luggage processing and direct transportation to pilgrims’ accommodations inside the Kingdom while using advanced technologies to speed up procedures efficiently.
Widespread Praise from Pilgrims
In Senegal, pilgrims expressed great relief and happiness as the initiative was introduced in the country for the first time this year.
Imam Mahmoud Harun Sala from the city of Velingara said the simplified process allowed pilgrims to focus on the spiritual aspects of Hajj rather than travel complications.
He added that easier access to the holy sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah strengthened pilgrims’ spiritual experience and peace of mind.
In Ivory Coast, teacher Khadija Traoré praised the services provided through the initiative at Abidjan Airport, saying the dedicated Hajj terminal significantly accelerated procedures and especially helped elderly pilgrims.
Special Support for Disabled Pilgrims
Visually impaired Moroccan pilgrims also praised the compassionate assistance and highly organized support provided by Saudi teams participating in the initiative.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior oversees the Makkah Route Initiative in cooperation with several government agencies, including the ministries of foreign affairs, health, Hajj and Umrah, media, aviation authorities, customs, and digital services entities.
According to the Saudi Press Agency, more than 1.25 million pilgrims have benefited from the initiative since its launch eight years ago.
The announcement comes as the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah officially begins, with the Day of Arafah set for May 26 and Eid Al-Adha beginning the following day.
