Dhaka: Pilgrims from the People's Republic of Bangladesh praised the Makkah Route Initiative for fulfilling their aspirations by facilitating Hajj travel with unprecedented ease.

According to Saudi Press Agency, now in its sixth year of implementation at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka and its eighth year globally, the initiative is a key component of the Ministry of Interior's efforts under the Pilgrim Experience Program, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030.

This year, the initiative serves 10 countries across 17 international entry points, including new participants Senegal and Brunei Darussalam. The program streamlines the pilgrimage by providing electronic visas, verifying health requirements, and completing passport and biometric procedures at the point of departure. It also manages the specialized tagging and direct transport of luggage to accommodations in Makkah and Madinah.

Bangladeshi pilgrims highlighted the efficiency of the Saudi team and the use of AI-powered equipment, significantly saving time and effort. They noted that the initiative allows pilgrims to transfer directly from Saudi airports to their residences without waiting for baggage procedures. This organized system reflects the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing services and ensuring a peaceful journey for pilgrims.