Mecca Launches Modern Abattoir with 100% Waste Recycling for Hajj

Saudi Arabia has inaugurated its first modern abattoir in Mecca, designed to process 100% of organic waste generated during the Hajj pilgrimage. This facility is part of a larger model livestock city project aimed at strengthening waste management through environmentally friendly technology.

The abattoir is equipped with an integrated system featuring advanced processing technology. It handles carcasses and organic waste from sacrificial animals, including specialized units for processing blood, fat, and offal, bone grinding, and an automated odor control system. The facility has the capacity to process 2,500 tons of solid and liquid waste annually, ensuring nothing is sent to landfills.

Developed in collaboration with Oclean, the technology employed allows approximately 45% of what was previously considered waste from slaughtered animals to be transformed into economically valuable products. These include organic fertilizer, protein powder, and raw materials for animal feed, embodying a sustainable circular economy model that the Saudi government sees as a potential national standard.

In parallel, the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture urged the public to use official slaughterhouses during Eid al-Adha. The ministry emphasized that using designated facilities is crucial for maintaining meat quality, safeguarding public health, and protecting the environment. All appointed abattoirs are equipped with modern technology and supervised by professional veterinarians to ensure product safety and prevent animal disease transmission, adhering to strict local and international veterinary standards.