The Al-Mashair Metro transported 314,000 pilgrims in two days

May 27, 2026
The Al-Mashair Metro transported 314,000 pilgrims in two days

The Al-Mashair Al-Muqaddasah Metro project has transported over 314,000 pilgrims since its official launch. Throughout the Hajj season, the system plans to operate more than 2,000 trips and transport two million passengers.

Record performance on the first day of operation

Saudi Railways announced impressive results from the Al-Mashair Al-Muqaddasah Metro. From its official launch on Monday morning until the completion of transporting pilgrims to Arafat on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m., the system transported over 314,000 passengers. This demonstrates the effectiveness of modern transport infrastructure in managing large flows of people during one of the largest religious events in the world. Such high figures were achieved thanks to clear organization and prior planning of all operational processes.

Phase three: the route from Arafat to Muzdalifah

The third operational phase of the metro is scheduled for Tuesday at 19:00. At this stage, the system will transport pilgrims from Arafat to Muzdalifah — a sacred place where pilgrims spend the night in reflection. This part of the route is critically important for Hajj logistics, as it requires coordination of the movement of a vast number of people between two distant points. Smooth organization of this process significantly impacts the overall experience of pilgrims and their physical well-being during the multi-day journey.

Comprehensive plan for the entire Hajj season

Saudi Railways has developed an ambitious operational plan for the entire 2026 Hajj season. The Al-Mashair Al-Muqaddasah Metro system plans to operate more than 2,000 trips and transport over two million passengers. Such scale requires coordinated work of all system components: from trains and stations to staff and flow management systems. Investments in modern transport infrastructure allow Saudi Arabia not only to facilitate the pilgrimage of millions of believers but also to set new standards in organizing large-scale religious events.

The importance of technology in managing pilgrim flows

The experience of the Al-Mashair Al-Muqaddasah Metro highlights the critical importance of modern transport solutions in organizing large-scale pilgrimages. An efficient public transport system reduces pilgrim fatigue, minimizes health and safety risks, and allows people to focus on the spiritual aspect of the pilgrimage. The integration of digital tools for tracking flows, planning routes, and managing schedules is becoming a necessary part of modern pilgrimage tourism, ensuring safe and convenient travel for millions of believers from around the world.

Frequently asked questions

How many pilgrims were transported by the Al-Mashair Al-Muqaddasah Metro in the first two days?

From its official launch on Monday morning until the completion of transportation to Arafat on Tuesday at 11:00, the metro transported over 314,000 pilgrims. This indicates the high capacity of the system and the efficiency of its operation.

When will the third phase of the metro's operation begin?

The third operational phase of the Al-Mashair Al-Muqaddasah Metro, which will transport pilgrims from Arafat to Muzdalifah, is scheduled for Tuesday at 19:00. This phase is critically important for the logistics of the pilgrimage.

How many trips does the metro plan to operate during the Hajj season?

Saudi Railways plans more than 2,000 trips of the Al-Mashair Al-Muqaddasah Metro throughout the Hajj season, aiming to transport over two million passengers, ensuring a safe and convenient pilgrimage.