Saudia initiates extensive expansion of Hajj operation services

Saudia Airlines Expands Hajj Services, Introduces Innovative Solutions for 2025

KARACHI – Saudia Airlines is heralding a new era in pilgrimage travel by extending its Hajj operations beyond traditional air transportation services for the upcoming season in 2025.

The Saudi national flag carrier aims to position itself as a comprehensive service partner for millions of pilgrims worldwide, introducing groundbreaking products and services to enhance their spiritual journey. The ambition is to capture up to 35% of the market share, serving pilgrims from over 100 global destinations.

With a modern fleet of 158 aircraft, Saudia has set aside over one million seats for the Hajj 2025 season, scheduled for June 4-9, pending lunar observations. The company will mobilize more than 11,000 frontline staff and aircraft maintenance technicians across a 74-day operational window.

In a statement, H.E. Engr Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia, expressed the company's dedication: "Hajj remains one of our top national priorities. This year, we are not only managing air operations at full capacity but also extending our role to become a direct service provider to pilgrims."

The airline plans to invest over SAR 100 million (approximately USD 26.7 million) to improve infrastructure and services across Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites. This investment will result in thoughtfully curated service packages designed to redefine the concept of Hajj service delivery.

One of the most notable innovations is the introduction of "The Coolest Ihram" - the world's first high-tech Ihram garment. Developed in collaboration with design firm Landor and textile technology company brrr, the garment offers patented cooling minerals, active wicking technology, and rapid-drying capabilities that can lower skin temperature by up to 2°C (3.6°F). The garment also provides UPF 50+ sun protection, ensuring full compliance with Islamic requirements for both men and women. The product will be available to Saudia passengers starting in June 2025.

Saudia Airlines' transformation does not end with transportation. The company is introducing dedicated rest areas, restaurants, and coffee lounges inspired by its premium AlFursan airport lounges at the holy sites. These facilities will be staffed by multilingual personnel to ensure smooth communication with the diverse international pilgrim population.

The enhanced service portfolio includes specialized accommodation arrangements, diverse halal meal options, timely prayer and Miqat announcements, and educational programs developed in collaboration with the Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.

Relevant details from Enrichment Data

Saudia Group aims to be a full-service Hajj provider, offering end-to-end solutions for travel, accommodation, on-ground assistance, and specialized amenities for pilgrims.
The airline has expanded its reach to offer direct flights from major North American hubs (New York, Washington, Toronto, Los Angeles) to Jeddah, Riyadh, and Medina, allowing international pilgrims more convenient travel options.
Additional innovative services include streamlined check-in, comprehensive baggage solutions, upgraded in-flight meals, special assistance for elderly and differently-abled travelers, and digital tools for booking, real-time updates, and mobile support.

Saudia Group, in its ambition to be a full-service Hajj provider, plans to offer end-to-end solutions for travel, accommodation, on-ground assistance, and specialized amenities for pilgrims, including direct flights from major North American hubs.
One of the innovative services Saudia Airlines is introducing is the world's first high-tech Ihram garment, "The Coolest Ihram," developed in collaboration with design firm Landor and textile technology company brrr, offering patented cooling minerals, active wicking technology, rapid-drying capabilities, UPF 50+ sun protection, and lowering skin temperature by up to 2°C.
Financial investments to improve infrastructure and services across Makkah, Madinah, and the holy sites will result in thoughtfully curated service packages designed to redefine the concept of Hajj service delivery, incorporating dedicated rest areas, restaurants, and coffee lounges inspired by its premium AlFursan airport lounges.
The enhanced service portfolio includes specialized accommodation arrangements, diverse halal meal options, timely prayer and Miqat announcements, educational programs developed in collaboration with the Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, streamlined check-in, comprehensive baggage solutions, upgraded in-flight meals, and digital tools for booking, real-time updates, and mobile support, catering to the diverse international pilgrim population as part of their overall lifestyle during travel and finance management.