JEDDAH: Ministry of Transport Launches Media Center for 2024 Hajj Season
In an effort to support journalists from 16 countries covering the arrival and departure of pilgrims during the Hajj season, the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services unveiled the media center at the Hajj and Umrah terminals at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
The center, operational 24/7, provides shared workspaces and real-time updates for over 1,300 journalists, enhancing media efficiency. It collaborates with the Makkah Route Initiative led by the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and the General Authority of Media Regulation.
Catering to both local and international media outlets, the center offers multiple studios, shared workspaces, and supports media messages in five languages: Arabic, English, French, Urdu, and Persian.
Saleh Al-Zuaid, official spokesman for the Ministry of Transport, highlighted the technological advancements revolutionizing transportation and logistics systems for pilgrims. With 19 technologies introduced last year and plans for 32 more this year, innovations such as road-cooling technology and automatic monitoring aim to enhance efficiency, safety, and comfort for pilgrims.
New initiatives like the luggage-free Hajj and rubberized sidewalk projects are set to be introduced to further improve the pilgrimage experience. The Ministry of Transport is also exploring the use of self-driving vehicles for order delivery and a taxi app for convenient transportation.
These initiatives are designed to prioritize pilgrims’ well-being, reduce logistical challenges, and enhance accessibility to essential services during the Hajj season.