Saudi’s Madinah Airport Announces Expansion to Enhance Hajj Experience

Prince Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madinah, the closest air hub to the Prophet's Mosque, has announced ambitious expansion plans aimed at significantly improving facilities for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. By 2028, the airport will be equipped to handle 17 million passengers annually.

The existing Terminal 1 will be transformed into an international terminal, while a newly renovated terminal will cater specifically to Hajj and Umrah charter flights. Domestic flights will operate from a newly constructed 39,000-square-metre terminal, connected to Terminal 1 by a new pier. This new terminal will span three levels and incorporate the distinctive modular steel palm-tree-shaped columns, symbolising peace and prosperity.

“The revitalised terminal and new domestic terminal will provide passengers with an illuminating experience, providing comfort and tranquillity,” Maurice Rosario, director and head of aviation at Scott Brownrigg, the design company behind the project, tells SceneTraveller. “Our design aspires to reflect the unique essence of the Hijaz region and the revered holy city of Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah.”

Both the new and renovated terminals will maintain the architectural identity of the original airport, inspired by its role as a gateway for millions of pilgrims to the holy site of Madinah. As the first commercial airport terminal in the Middle East to achieve LEED Gold certification, the airport's new designs will continue to meet high sustainability standards and allow for future expansions.

This transformation underscores Madinah Airport’s commitment to providing an enhanced travel experience, reflecting the cultural and spiritual significance of the region for pilgrims worldwide.