Makkah undergoes major infrastructure and economic transformation

Makkah is undergoing significant urban transformation to integrate sacred heritage with modern infrastructure, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030. This development aims to shift the city's economy from seasonal to a diversified, investment-driven model encompassing housing, hospitality, retail, logistics, and transportation.

According to the 2025 Pilgrim Experience Program annual report, the Makkah service ecosystem has implemented 87 initiatives involving over 60 partner entities. Last year, Saudi Arabia welcomed more than 19.5 million international pilgrims, including 1.5 million Hajj pilgrims and 18.03 million Umrah pilgrims, representing a 114 percent increase in Umrah arrivals compared to 2022. Satisfaction rates reached 91 percent for Hajj and 94 percent for Umrah pilgrims.

To improve mobility, the Saudi government has opened new routes to the Masjidil Haram area, including sections of the Third Ring Road and Prince Saud Al Faisal Road. The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites stated that these new access points could reduce travel times on related routes by more than 90 percent. These infrastructure improvements are designed to manage high traffic density and enhance safety for residents, tourists, and pilgrims during peak seasons.