Saudi Arabia’s flagship airline, Saudia, is set to establish a revolutionary air connection between the holiest place in Islam, the Grand Mosque, and the Red Sea city of Jeddah.

The airline has inked a deal for the procurement of 100 Lilium jets, cutting-edge German electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. These futuristic vehicles will transport pilgrims between King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah and designated airstrips near the Grand Mosque and other sacred locations in Mecca hotels.

According to Abdullah Al Shahrani, the director of the group’s corporate communication, each eVTOL aircraft is designed to accommodate up to six passengers. Shahrani also highlighted Saudia’s collaboration with national legal organizations to secure the necessary flying permissions for these electric aircraft, anticipating a groundbreaking transformation in transportation during the Umrah (smaller pilgrimage) and the annual Hajj pilgrimage seasons.

While the official did not disclose the exact commencement date of the service, he expressed that the Lilium jets would debut for the first time in the kingdom. This innovative approach aims to enhance the efficiency and experience of pilgrims during their journeys.

Last year, nearly 2 million pilgrims from around the world participated in the obligatory Islamic duty of Hajj in Saudi Arabia, signaling a return to pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Tawfiq Al Rabiah, reported a record-breaking 13.5 million Umrah pilgrims, underscoring the significance of these initiatives in meeting the growing demands of religious travel.