Major infrastructure and transport upgrades boost Hajj experience

Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites CEO Saleh Al-Rasheed
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Updated 16 June 2025
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Major infrastructure and transport upgrades boost Hajj experience

The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites significantly enhanced the pilgrim experience during Hajj by implementing advanced infrastructure projects, particularly in the energy and transportation sectors.

In a substantial investment exceeding SR3 billion ($800 million), the commission boosted electricity capacity in the holy sites by 95 percent and distributed more than 7 million cubic meters of water, ensuring robust essential services for pilgrims.

The commission also managed an integrated transportation system involving over 23,000 buses. It launched the General Center for Transport as a unified hub to streamline movement. This center spearheaded the public transportation plan for all stages of the Hajj, in collaboration with the Public Security. Dedicated frequency lanes for buses drastically reduced travel time to just 20 minutes.

In cooperation with the Ministry of Health and Kidana Development Company, the commission increased bed capacity in the holy sites by more than 60 percent and opened an emergency hospital. It also equipped 71 rapid intervention points for the Saudi Red Crescent Authority, shaded over 170,000 square meters of paths with rubber flooring, and planted 23,000 trees in Mina.

Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites CEO Saleh Al-Rasheed commended the tireless efforts of the wise leadership, which he said were instrumental in the success of this year’s Hajj season. He also lauded the continuous cooperation and diligent work of all participating entities.


LuLu expands specialty coffee footprint in KSA with Sulalat

Updated 24 January 2026
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LuLu expands specialty coffee footprint in KSA with Sulalat

LuLu Group has signed a landmark MoU with Sulalat Coffee during the 5th edition of World of Coffee Dubai trade show. This exclusive retail partnership is designed to enhance the specialty coffee offerings across LuLu Hypermarkets in Saudi Arabia, meeting the growing demand for premium coffee experiences within the region.
The agreement was signed by Mohamed Haris, director, Saudi Arabia, LuLu Group, and Abdulelah Al-Murqi, marketing director, Sulalat Coffee. Through this collaboration, LuLu Group will provide a dedicated platform for Sulalat’s specialty-grade beans, which are globally sourced and roasted in Riyadh. This initiative ensures that world-class coffee quality, previously reserved for niche aficionados, is now readily accessible to coffee lovers throughout the Kingdom.
By partnering with Sulalat Coffee, LuLu Group is integrating artisanal expertise with large-scale retail excellence. Sulalat has been a pioneer in the specialty coffee movement in the region, and this partnership allows LuLu to showcase unique varieties and professional-grade roasting. The collaboration reflects a shared vision to celebrate the thriving local coffee culture and deliver an unparalleled selection of premium products to everyday consumers.
In alignment with Saudi Vision 2030, this partnership reinforces LuLu Group’s commitment to empowering homegrown brands and fostering economic diversification within the Kingdom. By providing a global stage for local excellence at events like World of Coffee Dubai, LuLu continues to support the growth of a vibrant private sector and a sustainable retail ecosystem.
As the premier platform for the industry, World of Coffee Dubai 2026 highlights the rapid growth and innovation within the regional coffee scene. With the event attracting more than 17,000 visitors and hundreds of global exhibitors, it provides a vital stage for industry leaders to connect.