MUSCAT : His Excellency Ahmed bin Saleh Al Rashidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs and Head of the Omani Hajj Mission, highlighted improvements in land transport.

Working closely with specialists from the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in Saudi Arabia, the mission introduced solutions to address operational and financial challenges under the new transport system.

Omani buses will now transport pilgrims to two designated stations – those arriving directly to Mecca and those coming from Medina – after which licensed Saudi buses will carry pilgrims to Mecca and the holy sites. A smart tracking system with a digital dashboard has been deployed on buses to monitor movements, ensure safety, and enable rapid response in emergencies.

On accommodations, His Excellency noted that modern roofs have been installed on all Mina camp tents to optimize airflow and comfort. The lighting system has been upgraded, camp flooring renewed for safe and smooth movement, and service facilities enhanced to improve the overall experience for pilgrims.

In aviation, coordination between Hajj companies, airlines, and Oman Airports has reduced ticket prices and added Taif Airport as a new destination. National carriers will operate flights until the 5th of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH, with the option for departures from Sohar Airport. The land pilgrim quota has decreased from 5,122 in 1446 AH to 3,034 this season.

His Excellency also pointed out improvements in the mission’s headquarters, now located in Al-Naseem near the holy sites, providing modern facilities for efficient service delivery. On the medical front, 17 Omani doctors have been licensed to accompany pilgrims within Hajj companies under the supervision of the mission’s medical delegation, enhancing healthcare support throughout the pilgrimage.

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