SAUDIA ARABIA: In the first 18 days of Ramadan, Saudi Arabia’s airports experienced an influx of over 3.4 million passengers, as reported by Matarat Holding Company. These travelers passed through major airports, including King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Medina, which are key hubs for pilgrims and general passengers alike. The busy travel period is characteristic of the religious significance of Ramadan and the travel patterns surrounding it.
Out of the total passengers, 2.4 million were international travelers, highlighting the significant role of Saudi Arabia as a key destination for pilgrims, especially during the holy month. The remaining 1.08 million were domestic travelers, reflecting the high volume of local movement during this period. These figures are indicative of the robust connectivity and operational capacity of Saudi airports during peak travel times, particularly for the pilgrimage season.
The total number of flights during this period reached 20,038, with 12,699 being international flights. This surge in air traffic was managed efficiently, showcasing the capabilities of Saudi Arabia’s aviation infrastructure to handle large-scale operations. The international flights were primarily aimed at accommodating the flow of pilgrims arriving for religious purposes, while the domestic flights catered to travelers within the Kingdom, including those visiting family or partaking in religious activities.
To facilitate smoother travel experiences for passengers, Saudi airports have upgraded several systems, including the introduction of an e-gate system at King Abdulaziz International Airport. This technological enhancement allows for faster processing of passengers, reducing congestion and wait times, making the travel experience more efficient and convenient. The ongoing efforts to modernize airport services underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving the travel experience for both domestic and international passengers.
