Jeddah hosts global Hajj industry gathering ahead of 2027 pilgrimage

More than 520 organisations from 150 countries have gathered in Jeddah for the sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition to discuss partnerships and preparations for next year’s pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

The event, themed “From Makkah to the World”, is being held at the Jeddah Superdome from November 8 to 11, bringing together government representatives, airlines, hotel operators, technology firms and service providers.

Ghassan Al-Nuwaimi, assistant undersecretary for international relations and official spokesperson of the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, said the conference had become an important platform for planning and coordination ahead of the Hajj season.

He said the five previous editions had resulted in more than 1,850 service agreements, over 310 sessions and 250 workshops, attracting more than 570,000 visitors.

This year’s exhibition covers more than 67,000 square metres and features stakeholders involved in transportation, accommodation, healthcare, technology and training.

Airlines and hospitality businesses are using the event to establish partnerships and expand services for pilgrims.

Saudi low-cost carrier flyadeal aims to transport 108,000 pilgrims during the upcoming Hajj season, up from around 74,000 last year, said Eyad Jamalallail, the airline’s director of ground operations and Hajj and Umrah.

The airline is expanding its charter operations to serve markets in Africa, Western Europe and the Indian subcontinent.

Hotel operators are also exploring new business opportunities and using artificial intelligence and online platforms to connect with customers and travel agents, said Mona Salah Eldeen, commercial manager of Dar Al-Taqwa Hotel in Madinah.

Real estate developers are showcasing accommodation projects in Makkah and Madinah. These include the Bawabat Rasan residential development in Makkah, being developed in partnership with the National Housing Company.

The conference is also hosting discussions on digital transformation, healthcare, sustainability, logistics and workforce development. New initiatives include training programmes for people serving pilgrims and an innovation platform connecting startups with operational challenges in the Hajj sector.

sks