Saudi Arabia Unveils Suite of Smart Technologies to Enhance Hajj Pilgrimage

Saudi Arabia is rolling out a range of innovative digital services and smart technologies aimed at transforming the pilgrimage experience for millions of Muslims during Hajj. The initiatives are part of the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 strategy to modernise services and improve pilgrim welfare.

In Madinah, digital platforms such as the Nusuk app are reshaping religious tourism. The platform enables pilgrims to schedule visits to the Holy Rawdah at the Prophet’s Mosque. In addition, health apps like Tawakkalna ensure immediate access to medical services, safeguarding pilgrims’ well-being throughout their stay. Interactive digital maps and multilingual AI-enabled guides are also being deployed to help visitors navigate the city and its religious landmarks more efficiently.

Meanwhile, in Makkah, the focus is on smart transportation. The Makkah Bus Guidance Center is utilising advanced technologies to coordinate the movement of international pilgrims to their accommodations. Integrated platforms like Arshidni and Nusuk Masar provide real-time trip data to bus guides, who use tablets to receive live updates, ensuring a streamlined and timely transportation process. Control rooms monitor bus routes and assign guides dynamically to enhance efficiency.

A significant addition this year is the Smart Enrichment Assistant, launched by the Agency for Religious Affairs at the Prophet’s Mosque. The tool provides AI-powered services including prayer schedules, sermon locations, and religious lesson details in multiple languages. Developed as part of a strategy to integrate modern technology with religious services, the app supports the Kingdom’s commitment to accessibility and moderation.

The Ministry of Interior has also expanded the Makkah Route Initiative, simplifying travel procedures for pilgrims. At departure airports such as Ankara’s Esenboğa International Airport, luggage is tagged with barcoded stickers that contain travel and accommodation information. This enables seamless transfer of belongings directly to hotels in Makkah and Madinah, easing the logistical burden on pilgrims upon arrival.

At the international level, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) is helping to expedite airport processing. At Esenboğa Airport, for instance, SDAIA’s systems are minimising wait times through advanced data handling and AI-powered verification, further improving the overall travel experience.

These developments underscore Saudi Arabia’s dedication to delivering high-quality, technology-driven services to pilgrims from across the globe, reinforcing its long-term vision to make Hajj safer, more efficient, and spiritually fulfilling.