Deputy Makkah Governor Prince Saud bin Mishal launched Makkah Taxi during the Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025. Developed by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites’ General Transport Center, it is Makkah’s first operating-franchise taxi license and the first such city system in Saudi Arabia.
Transport Minister Saleh Al-Jasser presented the license to commission Chief Executive Officer Saleh Al-Rasheed.
Al-Rasheed said the service uses reliable, environmentally friendly hybrid and electric vehicles, supporting Makkah as a smart, sustainable city and improving travel for pilgrims and residents.
A phased rollout began January 13, 2025. The service operates around the clock, initially covering 47 locations across Makkah, including major stations and areas around the Grand Mosque.
Licensed franchise operators use fleets approved by the General Transport Center and Transport General Authority. Payment options include cash and credit cards, with approved fares applied by electronic meters. Safety features include in-vehicle cameras, passenger-count sensors, emergency buttons and a specialist contact center.
The fleet is expected to reach approximately 1,800 vehicles by the end of 2025 to meet growing demand, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The launch took place at the fourth Hajj Conference and Exhibition, January 13–16 in Jeddah, under the theme “The Road to the Rituals.” Prince Saud bin Mishal opened the event with Hajj and Umrah Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah present, under King Salman’s patronage. The ministry organizes it with the Pilgrim Experience Program, a Saudi Vision 2030 initiative.
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