Hajj Conference Saudi Arabia: Global gathering in Jeddah to enhance services and promote innovation in Makkah and Madinah

Saudi Arabia is set to host the fourth edition of the Hajj Conference and Exhibition, a pivotal event aimed at revolutionising the services provided to millions of Muslim pilgrims. Under the patronage of King Salman, the conference will take place in Jeddah from 13 to 16 January 2025, organised by the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah alongside the Pilgrim Experience Program.

The gathering will bring together a diverse group of participants, including ministers, ambassadors, diplomats, academics, and experts from 87 countries. Representatives from both private and public institutions will join forces to discuss ways to elevate the pilgrimage experience in Makkah and Madinah, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).

This year’s conference promises to address pressing challenges in the pilgrimage sector, focusing on innovation, transparency, and service quality. The agenda features over 100 speakers, 47 panel discussions, and 50 workshops, all designed to foster dialogue and develop actionable solutions for the complex logistics of the Hajj pilgrimage.

Saudi officials aim to encourage collaboration and competition among Hajj service providers to ensure a seamless experience for pilgrims. The event will also showcase cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence, which is set to play a transformative role in managing the massive influx of worshippers each year.

One of the conference’s highlights will be a sprawling 50,000-square-metre exhibition space in Jeddah. This platform will host 280 exhibitors from various sectors, providing a glimpse into the future of pilgrimage services. Companies will demonstrate innovative solutions designed to streamline the journey, from crowd control to accommodation and transport logistics.

Last year’s conference underscored the event’s significance, resulting in the signing of 202 cooperation agreements aimed at improving Hajj services. It also attracted over 100,000 visitors, signalling its growing importance as a hub for global dialogue and collaboration in the pilgrimage sector.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah hopes to replicate and expand on last year’s success. With a renewed focus on fostering sustainable development and adopting advanced technologies, the organisers aim to set a global benchmark for pilgrimage management.

In a statement, the Ministry urged organisations and individuals interested in participating to register through the official conference website. By inviting a wide range of stakeholders, Saudi Arabia is seeking not just to improve Hajj logistics but also to fortify its position as a global leader in religious tourism.

This initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 goals, which include enhancing the Hajj and Umrah experience for worshippers worldwide. By focusing on innovation and sustainability, Saudi Arabia aims to overcome the challenges posed by growing numbers of pilgrims while ensuring their spiritual journey remains meaningful and safe.

The conference is not merely an exhibition of advancements but a critical platform for addressing the mounting logistical complexities of modern Hajj. With millions of pilgrims expected to participate annually, the stakes are higher than ever. Saudi Arabia is determined to use this forum to chart a course for the future—one that harmonises tradition with innovation to ensure the sacred journey remains accessible for generations to come.