GACA Chief: Madinah airport expansion to boost capacity to 18 million passengers by October 2027

JEDDAH — GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej announced that the expansion project at Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah will increase its passenger capacity from 8 million to 18 million, with the project set to be completed by October 2027. Speaking at the 6th Hajj Conference and Exhibition at Jeddah Superdome, Al-Duailej emphasized the crucial role of the aviation industry in advancing the objectives of the Pilgrim Service Program.

He highlighted that the GACA is focusing on ensuring pilgrim comfort and convenience throughout the year at six major airports. Under King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, which handled a record-breaking 52 million passengers last year, ongoing development projects are underway to expand operational capacity. These initiatives include upgrading Terminal 4 to handle over 15 million passengers, expanding the airport's Hajj terminals to accommodate 16 million passengers, and increasing the capacity of Terminal 1.

Al-Duailej stressed that the aviation sector is a key pillar for achieving Saudi Vision 2030 and the Hajj Service Program. He noted that the “Traveler without a bag” program has served nearly 4.5 million pilgrims since its launch four years ago, facilitating the handling of about 6.7 million bags by transporting luggage from accommodation to aircraft.

This initiative contributes to reducing waiting times and streamlining travel procedures, alongside expanding group travel services, electronic gates, and the “Makkah Route” initiative.

Furthermore, the GACA is assessing airlines based on their commitment to enhancing passenger services. Efforts are also being made to automate pilgrims' journeys through smart pathways and electronic gates at airports, enabling the completion of passport control procedures in under a minute.