Hajj 2026: Smart Systems Ease Pilgrim Transport

Transportation and crowd management systems for Hajj 2026 are reported operating smoothly, with expanded services aimed at elderly pilgrims and those with mobility needs across the holy sites in Makkah and Madinah.

Crowd management in Mina relies on smart sensors linked to the Nusuk Card, allowing real-time monitoring of pilgrim movement. The Nusuk Card serves as the central identification and permit system, and is mandatory for entry into Makkah, the holy sites, and the Prophet's Mosque, including Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah.

On the ground, a central automated system oversees roughly 24,000 buses, including 2,500 dedicated to arrivals and 400 Makkah buses running across 14 routes. The Haramain High-Speed Railway is providing more than 2.21 million seats during this season, operating over 5,300 journeys linking Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah. In Madinah, the Madinah Bus project offers special shuttle services to the Prophet's Mosque and Quba Mosque during the Day of Arafah and Eid Al-Adha prayers.

Support for vulnerable pilgrims

Authorities have expanded cooling infrastructure across the holy sites to reduce heat stress. For pilgrims with mobility needs, healthcare and transport support has been increased, including around 700 medical personnel, 90 ambulance units, and air ambulance services in Madinah. The Makkah Route Initiative remains active for selected countries, letting travelers complete immigration and baggage procedures before departure.

For residents and expats planning to perform Hajj, these measures point to shorter waits, clearer routes, and stronger safety coverage during one of the busiest periods of the year.

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