Saudi Arabia plans to use air taxis for pilgrims

RIYADH – The authorities in Saudi Arabia have revealed its ambitious plan to introduce a fleet of flying taxis in the near future to facilitate the transportation of Hajj pilgrims between King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Hotels in Makkah.

The move is part of Saudi’s initiative to enhance travel experiences for pilgrims during the holy season of Hajj and Umrah.  

The state-owned Saudia Airlines entered into a contract to procure 100 Lilium jets, which are advanced German electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

These electric aircraft designed to run exclusively on electric power, will establish connections between Jeddah airport and airstrips in hotels near the Grand Mosque and other sacred locations in Makkah.

Abdullah Al Shahrani, the director of the group’s corporate communication, has officially confirmed the progress and shared with a Saudi news portal that the eVTOL aircraft is capable of accommodating upto six passengers.

Moreover, discussions are underway between the Saudi carrier and legal institutions within the country to secure the necessary flying permits for the commercial use of this type of electric aircraft, which has not been deployed in the country on a wide scale before.

Al Shahrani highlighted that if the required permissions are granted, it would represent a significant qualitative shift in transportation services, particularly during the seasons of Umrah and the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

“This aircraft will see its debut in the Kingdom,” he added without disclosing the specific date for the commencement of the service.

Apart from transportation, in recent months, Saudi Arabia has unveiled a range of facilities for Muslims wishing to come to the country for Umrah. Visa holders are now permitted to enter the kingdom through air, sea, and land.

As part of these changes, Saudi Arabia has granted its citizens the ability to apply to invite their friends from abroad to visit the kingdom and undertake Umrah.

Saudi Arabia is of profound importance to Muslims as the birthplace of Islam. It houses the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, central to the annual Hajj pilgrimage and Umrah. The country’s religious significance is integral to Islamic history, culture, and practice, attracting millions of pilgrims worldwide.