Islamic lifestyle wrap: Saudi Arabia to launch flying taxi service for pilgrims
Here's a roundup of key developments across the Islamic lifestyle ecosystem during the first two weeks of January
Editor's note: Saudi Arabia is making headlines, for terrestrial and celestial reasons. It is looking to launch flying taxis to transport pilgrims, as well as looking to facilitate services for them on ground. Looks like the kingdom is the place to be.
Company News
Saudi Arabia
Saudia obtains license to provide Hajj services for pilgrims in Makkah, Medina, holy sites
Saudia Hajj and Umrah recently launched in the kingdom, marking a significant step in improving the pilgrimage experience.
The initiative aims to provide high-quality services to pilgrims, offering comprehensive packages covering flight bookings, accommodation, inter-city transportation, and visits to Islamic historical sites. (eTurbo News)
Türkiye
New website launched to facilitate Muslim travellers
Otelislam.com, a newly launched online platform, caters to the unique requirements of Muslim travellers seeking conservative Islamic hotels globally.
The platform offers a curated selection of accommodations aligning with Islamic values, featuring essential amenities such as alcohol-free and pork-free halal food, designated prayer areas, and privacy considerations for conservative Muslim families. (News Direct)
Trade Developments
Malaysia
Pahang sets eyes on lucrative Muslim tourism market
Pahang aims to position itself as a vibrant Muslim-friendly destination by enhancing products and experiences for Muslim travellers globally.
The state is actively working on improvements across existing and upcoming tourist destinations to cater to the needs of Muslim visitors. (New Straits Times)
Operational Developments
Saudi Arabia
Entrepreneurs invited to shape future of Hajj and Umrah services
The third Hajj and Umrah Services Conference and Exhibition's second day centered on boosting pilgrimage services through small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and entrepreneurship.
The event, spanning four days, is organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in collaboration with the Pilgrim Experience Program, a part of Saudi Vision 2030. (Arab News)
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia to launch flying taxi for Hajj, Umrah
Saudi Arabia is gearing up to launch a flying taxi service to transport Hajj and Umrah pilgrims from King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah to Makkah. The flying taxis will facilitate the transportation of pilgrims from the airport to hotels in Makkah.
Trials for flying taxis were announced by Saudi Arabia's Minister of Transport, Saleh bin Nasser Al Jasser, last year with plans for operational deployment, though the specific timeline is yet to be confirmed. (Global Village Space)