Saudi Arabia has decided to use drones and air taxis during the Hajj season this year.
According to the Saudi news agency Al-Arabiya Net, the Minister of Transport and Logistics Service, Engineer Saleh Al-Jasser, says that the latest technology will be used in this year’s Hajj season.
The Minister of Transport and Logistics Service, Engineer Saleh Al-Jasser, said that air taxis and drones will be used in Hajj 2024 using modern technologies.
According to Engineer Al Jasir, timely and practical steps have to be taken under a comprehensive program to manage the transportation of Hajj pilgrims, the transport and logistics sector is of utmost importance in the Hajj season.
The Minister of Transport said that the services are continued until the last Hajj pilgrim leaves Saudi Arabia and from the beginning of the Hajj season, the officials of the Ministry are ready to provide services as soon as the first Hajj pilgrims arrive in the Kingdom. becomes
Last year, during the Hajj season, the Ministry of Transport played an important role in making the Hajj operation a success through a grand force of 38,000 personnel.
He said that like last year, the Hajj season has been started this year as well. Pilgrims coming by air, land and railway are being served in every way.
#Drones #air #taxis #Hajj
**Interview with Dr. Layla Al-Fahd, Middle East Policy Expert**
**Editor:** Welcome, Dr. Al-Fahd. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the recent statements made by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman regarding his intention to continue “sport washing” efforts in Saudi Arabia. Can you start by explaining what “sport washing” means in this context?
**Dr. Al-Fahd:** Thank you for having me. “Sport washing” refers to the practice of countries or organizations using sports and high-profile events to improve their image and distract from negative issues, often related to human rights abuses or political repression. In this case, Saudi Arabia aims to leverage major sporting events and investments in sports to reshape its global perception.
**Editor:** In his recent interview, bin Salman expressed a commitment to this strategy. What do you think are the implications of this approach for Saudi Arabia’s international relations?
**Dr. Al-Fahd:** Bin Salman’s approach indicates a bold strategy to enhance Saudi Arabia’s soft power on the global stage. By hosting sports events and investing in athletics, the Kingdom aims to attract tourism and foreign investment while diverting attention from its controversial domestic policies. However, this strategy could face backlash from human rights advocates and international organizations, potentially complicating Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic relations with countries that prioritize human rights.
**Editor:** There has been criticism regarding Saudi Arabia’s human rights record. How might this “sport washing” affect that perception?
**Dr. Al-Fahd:** While the Kingdom may attract attention to its sporting initiatives, it’s crucial to understand that the underlying human rights issues are unlikely to fade away simply because of sports. Activists will continue to spotlight these issues, and if major sporting bodies are perceived to ignore them for profit, it could lead to reputational damage not only for Saudi Arabia but also for the organizations involved. A disconnect could emerge between a polished sports image and the reality faced by citizens.
**Editor:** What advice would you give to those engaging with sporting initiatives in Saudi Arabia, considering these complexities?
**Dr. Al-Fahd:** I would encourage stakeholders, whether athletes, sponsors, or sports organizations, to be mindful of the broader context. Engaging with Saudi sports can offer economic opportunities and foster cultural exchange, but it’s vital to advocate for transparency and human rights. Collaborating on initiatives that promote inclusivity and social progress could be a way to leverage their involvement constructively.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Al-Fahd, for sharing your insights on this critical issue. It will be important to watch how this unfolds in the coming months.
**Dr. Al-Fahd:** Thank you for having me. The intersection of sports and politics is always evolving, and it merits continued discussion.
