Saudi Ministry of Interior completes preparations for the ninth year of the Makkah Route Initiative, while conference sessions explore improvements to the pilgrim experience and highlight the contributions of 5,280 Saudi Scouts and Guides.

Jeddah | BETH

November 11, 2026

The sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition continued in Jeddah on Wednesday, focusing on early preparations for the 1448 AH Hajj season, improving services, and strengthening the human-centered and technological aspects of the pilgrimage experience.

Makkah Route Initiative | Preparations for the Next Hajj Season

The Saudi Ministry of Interior concluded the preparatory meetings of the Makkah Route Initiative's Supervisory Committee, with representatives from participating countries and those targeted for inclusion in the initiative's ninth year.

The meetings reviewed implementation arrangements and coordination among participating authorities, aiming to streamline pilgrims' procedures and improve service efficiency.

Peace of Mind as Part of the Pilgrim Experience

Sessions under the Impact Pioneers program explored ways to improve the pilgrim experience through psychological and spiritual support, communicating with patients in their own languages, and strengthening responses to situations encountered in the field.

Workshops also examined the use of artificial intelligence to better understand pilgrims' needs, measure their satisfaction, and enhance service quality.

Saudi Scouts | 5,280 Participants

Princess Sama bint Faisal, a member of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Arabian Scout Association, emphasized the importance of scouting in serving pilgrims.

She highlighted the participation of approximately 5,280 male and female Scouts and Guides, with activities coordinated across around 180 locations during the most recent deployment.

She explained that female participation in Hajj services had grown from 33 to approximately 300 participants, with expanding responsibilities in guidance, healthcare assistance, and pilgrim support.

The Princess also stressed the importance of training in first aid, crowd management, and responding to situations in the field.

BETH Analysis | Pilgrim Care Goes Beyond Procedures

The conference reflects an evolving approach to Hajj services that combines operational readiness, advanced technologies, and greater attention to pilgrims' individual and human needs.

Success is measured not only by the speed and efficiency of procedures, but also by the Hajj service system's ability to provide a safe and seamless journey that offers pilgrims peace of mind from arrival to departure.