Saudi Railways (SAR) has announced its operational plan for Hajj 2025, unveiling a 25% increase in available rail seats to accommodate the rising number of pilgrims.

The Haramain High-Speed Railway, one of the fastest in the world, is set to transport two million pilgrims this season, with an additional 400,000 seats added to meet the surge in demand.

According to SAR, the Haramain Railway will operate 4,768 trips between Madinah and Makkah until 20 Dhu al-Hijjah 1446.

The fleet includes 35 high-speed trains running at 300 km/h, each with a capacity of 417 passengers.

Moreover, the railway system promises a modern, eco-friendly, and efficient travel experience for pilgrims.

Saudi Arabia has mobilized 25,000 buses and expanded its air, sea, and rail services.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has secured three million flight seats, while Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) will operate 2,000 flights, offering one million seats for international pilgrims.

However, the Al Mashair Metro is also set to play a critical role, with 2,000 scheduled trips to transport more than two million passengers between key religious sites.

The Saudi Ports Authority (Mawani) has deployed 436 staff members at the Jeddah Islamic Port to facilitate the smooth arrival of 5,000 pilgrims.

Additionally, Saudi Post (SPL) has introduced refrigerated vehicles to transport medical supplies, reflecting increased attention to health logistics during the Hajj season.

Strict measures are in place to ensure orderly conduct during the pilgrimage.

Saudi authorities have warned of severe penalties for unauthorized pilgrimages, including fines ranging from 10,000 to 100,000 Saudi Riyals, imprisonment, deportation, and a 10-year entry ban.

The Pakistani Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Ahmed Farooq, emphasized the importance of compliance, revealing that over 11,000 Pakistani pilgrims overstayed their visas during the previous Hajj season.

To address this, Pakistani pilgrims will now receive smart electronic wristbands to help monitor movements and ensure timely departures. Overstaying in the Haram region is now classified as a serious offence and will be met with strict enforcement.

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