Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, has ushered in a groundbreaking transformation for the Hajj season of 2025, redefining the pilgrimage experience with cutting-edge technology, expanded services, and smart travel solutions. Marking a “new era” in Hajj operations, the airline is stepping beyond its role as a carrier to become a comprehensive service partner for millions of pilgrims worldwide.
This year, Saudia is allocating over one million seats for Hajj pilgrims, operating a modern fleet of 158 aircraft and targeting a projected market share of up to 35%. The airline will serve travelers from more than 100 destinations across the globe, offering a seamless end-to-end journey. From booking to arrival and departure, the travel process is being optimized with the help of over 11,000 frontline staff and maintenance technicians across a 74-day operational window. Extensive coordination with public and private sector partners ensures smooth airport operations and passenger handling.
In a bold step, Saudia has committed over SAR 100 million to developing enhanced ground services in Makkah, Madinah, and other holy sites. This includes the creation of thoughtfully curated service packages with high-quality accommodations, rest zones, and food and beverage lounges modeled after Saudia’s premium AlFursan lounges. Multilingual staff will assist pilgrims at every stage, providing exceptional care and hospitality.
Among the most innovative highlights this year is the launch of the world’s first high-tech pilgrimage garment — The Coolest Ihram. Created in collaboration with design firm Landor and cooling fabric experts brrr, the advanced Ihram is engineered with patented cooling minerals, moisture-wicking, and rapid-drying technology. It can lower skin temperature by up to 2°C and offers UPF 50+ sun protection, while remaining fully Shariah-compliant for both men and women. The high-tech garment will be available to Saudia passengers from June 2025, setting a new global standard for comfort and safety during pilgrimage.
Onboard services have also been elevated, with Saudia offering diverse meal options, real-time prayer and Miqat announcements, and educational Hajj programming developed in partnership with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. For passengers with special needs, the airline provides accessible seating, medical stretcher services, and oxygen support, ensuring that all pilgrims — regardless of physical condition — can undertake the sacred journey with dignity.
Further enhancing the digital experience, the Saudia Group has introduced the official Saudia Hajj and Umrah Platform. This centralized hub provides real-time updates, information on new products, and a suite of digital services designed to simplify and enrich every stage of the pilgrimage.
According to H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia, the initiative reflects the airline’s commitment to making Hajj a world-class experience: “Hajj remains one of our top national priorities. We are proud to operate at full capacity while expanding our role as a direct service provider. This year, we aim to deliver a holistic and dignified pilgrimage experience that redefines excellence.”
