Saudi Arabia to Launch Electric Air Taxis for Pilgrims in Mecca

Makkah: Saudi Arabia's national carrier, Saudia, is making preparations to launch an air service specifically designed to transport pilgrims between the Red Sea city of Jeddah and the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Islam's holiest site. According to Abdullah Al Shahrani, the director of corporate communication at Saudia, the airline has contracted the purchase of 100 Lilium jets. These German electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft will be used to shuttle passengers between King Abdulaziz airport in Jeddah and airstrips located near hotels in Mecca that are close to the Grand Mosque and other holy places.

The eVTOL aircraft have a capacity of carrying up to six passengers each. In order for this innovative transportation method to become a reality, Saudia is currently working with legal institutions within Saudi Arabia to obtain flying permits for these electric aircraft. Al Shahrani believes that this development will mark a significant "qualitative" turn in transportation during both Umrah (minor pilgrimage) seasons and the annual Hajj pilgrimage. He added that this type of aircraft will be used for the first time in the kingdom; however, he did not disclose an exact date for when this service will commence.

Last year saw nearly 2 million pilgrims from around the world perform Hajj in Saudi Arabia—an obligatory Islamic duty—signaling a return to pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, Umrah pilgrim numbers reached a record high of 13.5 million last year according to Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al Rabiah.

In recent months, Saudi Arabia has unveiled various facilities aimed at facilitating visits from Muslims wishing to undertake Umrah. Visa holders are now permitted entry into the kingdom through all land, air, and sea outlets. Furthermore, citizens are allowed to apply for invitations inviting their friends abroad to visit the kingdom and undertake Umrah. Notably, women pilgrims are no longer required to be escorted by male guardians. Additionally, the kingdom has announced that expatriates residing in Gulf Cooperation Council countries are eligible to apply for a tourist visa, regardless of their profession, and can perform Umrah.

Saudi Arabia continues its efforts to enhance the experience of pilgrims and make religious journeys more accessible for Muslims worldwide.