Saudi Data and AI Authority President Reviews Tech Operations for Makkah Route Initiative

Abdullah Al-Ghamdi, president of the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), has conducted a comprehensive review of technical operations at 11 international airports as part of the Kingdom’s Makkah Route Initiative, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The initiative, led by the Ministry of Interior under the Pilgrim Experience Program — a key component of Vision 2030 — is designed to streamline the arrival process for Hajj pilgrims traveling from abroad. This year, the initiative is active in seven countries, where airport-based teams are working to enhance the pilgrim experience through advanced technology and coordination.

During a virtual meeting with SDAIA teams stationed abroad, Al-Ghamdi evaluated the operational readiness of the technical personnel involved in the project. He underscored the importance of integrating services and using innovative digital tools to simplify the pilgrimage journey.

Al-Ghamdi expressed appreciation for the dedication of the teams and emphasized the need for continued excellence in delivering services to pilgrims. He urged all involved to intensify efforts to ensure the successful implementation of the Makkah Route Initiative this Hajj season.

The review covered both fixed and mobile airport workstations that have been deployed across participating countries. These stations are equipped with cutting-edge digital systems, including biometric registration capabilities, to facilitate smooth and secure pre-departure procedures for pilgrims in their home countries.

Biometric data, such as facial recognition and fingerprint scans, are collected ahead of time to enable faster processing upon arrival in Saudi Arabia. The integration of these technologies is part of a broader digital transformation strategy aimed at enhancing the efficiency and ease of Hajj travel.

The Makkah Route Initiative, first launched in 2019, seeks to provide a seamless experience for pilgrims by completing immigration, health, and logistics procedures before departure. This year’s rollout builds on past successes and reflects the Kingdom’s growing reliance on data-driven services to improve operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

As the Hajj season approaches, Saudi authorities continue to coordinate closely with international stakeholders to ensure that pilgrims benefit from faster processing, reduced congestion, and improved services — from departure to arrival and throughout their sacred journey.