This season, Muslim pilgrims from all over the world will be able to see the usage of cutting-edge technologies and creative solutions in Saudi Arabia, as the country plans to test flying taxis and drones for a safer and more efficient travel experience.
"Drones and flying taxis will undergo testing during this year's Hajj season to ensure seamless operations and provide our guests with maximum comfort during their stay here," stated Saleh al-Jasser, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport and Logistic Services.
Saleh announced the launch of drones and flying taxis in an interview with the state-owned international Arabic news television channel Al Arabiya. He said there is fierce competition among different transportation providers "to provide a practical product in the upcoming years."
He emphasized that the authorities were looking into its integration in detail as a long-term plan for future facilitation efforts.
The minister stated that the ministry needed to introduce these new technologies and figure out the best way to use them for the benefit of pilgrims, since this sector has been gradually expanding.
"It is imperative that we take the lead in order to fully realize the potential of these cutting-edge services," the minister emphasized.
Muhammad Umar, a spokesman for Pakistan's Religious Ministry, applauded the Saudi authorities for the effort, saying that they were dedicated to ensuring pilgrims comfort and convenience. Saudi Arabia is modernizing the pilgrimage experience with new technologies, he added.
"I have personally experienced the commitment and hard work of the Saudi authorities in assisting millions of pilgrims on their sacred journey.