Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — Jeddah Islamic Port received on Wednesday the first group of pilgrims for the Hajj of 2025, with 1,407 pilgrims on board a ship from Sudan.

The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has implemented all necessary measures to ensure operational readiness for receiving pilgrims, aiming to enhance efficiency and performance across all aspects of the Hajj journey, from arrival and reception to baggage handling and onward transportation to the holy cities.

This effort is part of an integrated operational plan developed in coordination with relevant authorities and aligned with the broader transportation sector to serve the pilgrims. Mawani is streamlining pilgrim travel this year through three key initiatives: direct luggage transfer, advance shipment handling for smoother movement, and coordinated livestock truck transit from Jeddah to Makkah during restricted times. These implementations enhance the overall pilgrim experience.