To streamline preparations, KAIA management hosted a series of coordination meetings with airlines, government authorities, luggage handlers and other departments.
The sessions included updates on international rules and local civil aviation regulations that need to be observed by passengers and staff to ensure ease and safety for all.
KAIA’s management highlighted the need to strictly observe check-in procedures and international luggage restrictions: For checked luggage, 32 kg is the maximum weight per single bag.
This weight limit complies with official International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines.
KAIA officials, however, stressed that airlines and travel agencies must inform their passengers about further restrictions that might apply.
Some airlines have lower limits per bag, they said. The maximum weight limit also relates only to single items and does not affect total luggage allowance. Therefore, passengers are advised to check with their airlines in advance.
“We look forward to receiving this year’s Eid holiday travelers and wish them a safe journey and pleasant stay at the airport,” said Mazen Khashoggi, director general of KAIA.
“We call on all travelers to respect the sanctity of these blessed days and to abide by the rules and regulations set by the General Authority of Civil Aviation. This will help the KAIA team to provide a smooth service for everyone so we can all enjoy a great travel experience starting with an easy check-in and a seamless departure.”
Khashoggi advised passengers against reaching the airport too early and said they should arrive within the time set by the airlines for check-in.
At the same time, passengers should make sure to say farewell to non-traveling companions outside the check-in hall, which is only for persons holding valid tickets.
Once the boarding pass is obtained, it is important to go to the departure gates rather quickly, allowing other passengers to use the space in the check-in hall.
The 29-year-old airport includes the South, North, Haj and General Aviation Terminals as its main facilities, as well as employee quarters.
Further expansion plans are being implemented this year. The airport’s passenger capacity is expected to continuously increase, reaching 19 million passengers this year.
KAIA, the main gateway to the holy city of Makkah, was receiving pilgrims at a rate of 60,000 a day over the past couple of weeks, according to airport officials.
The airport’s Haj Terminal is estimated to be, at five million square feet, among the world’s largest air terminals. The exclusive outdoor terminal, with its tent-shaped fiberglass roof, can accommodate 80,000 travelers at a time.
