China's Hajj‐Related Infrastructure Diplomacy with Saudi Arabia

Abstract Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 calls for promoting modernization and developing the industry centered around the hajj, the annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca. China, with its robust capabilities in transportation and high‐tech infrastructure, sees assisting in these processes as a way to advance its Belt and Road Initiative and strengthen its relationship with Riyadh. The government in Beijing and its enterprises provide expertise in road transportation, high‐tech communications, and cutting‐edge energy technologies that can serve the hajj. This includes the construction of the Mecca Light Railway and the Haramain High Speed Railway, the provision of 5G telecommunications, and exports of buses, both traditional and electric. The article examines these projects and shows how China uses them as a form of diplomacy that increases mutual trust, which can enhance other areas of the political and economic relationship between the East Asian giant and the Gulf power.