Makkah airport and metro plans underway: Official

InternationalMakkah airport and metro plans underway: OfficialBy Web Desk-Apr 15, 2026MAKKAH: Plans to build an airport and a metro system in Makkah are underway, according to an official, as the city moves ahead with major transport and infrastructure upgrades. CEO of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites, Saleh Al-Rasheed, said in an interview with Harvard Business Review that approval has been secured for the strategic and economic investment directions to develop Makkah Airport to global standards, aimed at serving millions of visitors. He added that the Commission will work with the private sector to develop suitable investment models without affecting the feasibility of airports in neighboring cities. Al-Rasheed said feasibility studies and preliminary designs for the Makkah Metro have also been completed. Beyond transport, he outlined broader efforts to improve services and the overall experience for residents and visitors through projects covering housing, infrastructure and public services, while ensuring alignment with community needs. He highlighted key performance targets, including raising satisfaction levels among residents and visitors to 90.5% by 2025. Among the initiatives is the “Smart Makkah” program, which uses artificial intelligence to monitor and manage crowd movement in the Grand Mosque and surrounding areas. This includes predictive systems for crowd flow at the Jamarat Bridge and central zones, as well as aerial imaging integrated with the “Balady” application to improve the pilgrim experience. Al-Rasheed also pointed to transport improvements, including advancements in bus, taxi and guided transport systems, alongside the launch of “Makkah Taxi,” featuring modern vehicles equipped with tracking systems and electronic payment options, as well as electric and hybrid models. The Makkah bus network currently operates 400 buses across 12 routes, covering most neighborhoods and serving 430 stops, in addition to four main statio...