Minister of Information: 5G network in the Holy Sites is 100% complete
In a move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to providing the highest quality services to pilgrims, Minister of Media Salman Al-Dossari announced an unprecedented technological achievement: the 100% completion of the 5G network in the Holy Sites . This announcement, made during a government press conference held on Wednesday, underscores the readiness of the Hajj system for the 1447 AH season and its full reliance on the latest technologies to ensure the safety, security, and comfort of pilgrims.
Digital infrastructure development to serve pilgrims
Historically, Saudi Arabia has strived for decades to harness all its resources to facilitate the Hajj pilgrimage. With the launch of Vision 2030, the Kingdom's communications and information technology infrastructure has witnessed tremendous leaps forward. The shift from traditional networks to adopting the concept of "smart Hajj" was not a sudden occurrence, but rather the result of continuous strategic planning aimed at accommodating millions of pilgrims within a limited geographical area and a short timeframe. These efforts have culminated in the Kingdom ranking first globally in the Digital Readiness Index, reflecting the strength of its infrastructure and its ability to meet the growing demands of the pilgrims.
Dimensions and importance of providing a 5G network in the holy sites
The provision of 5G networks in the Holy Sites not only improves internet speed but also has significant local, regional, and international implications. Locally, this comprehensive coverage enables security, health, and regulatory authorities to manage crowds efficiently through real-time data analysis, artificial intelligence, and advanced surveillance cameras. Internationally, this achievement allows millions of pilgrims from around the world to seamlessly connect with their families and share their spiritual experience with the world, thus enhancing the positive image of the Kingdom's efforts in serving Islam and Muslims.
Makkah Route Initiative and Facilitating International Procedures
In a related context, regarding facilitating the Hajj pilgrimage, the Minister of Information noted the continued success of the “Makkah Route Initiative,” now in its eighth consecutive year. This initiative, overseen by the Ministry of Interior, represents a significant leap forward in serving pilgrims, enabling them to complete their entry procedures in their home countries through 17 ports of entry in 10 different nations. Since its launch, this pioneering initiative has benefited over 1.2 million pilgrims, reflecting its positive impact in reducing waiting times and expediting entry upon arrival in the Kingdom.
Hajj Media Forum and Integration of Government Efforts
To highlight these tremendous efforts, Makkah is hosting the third edition of the Hajj Media Forum this year. Al-Dossari explained that more than 2,400 technical staff are working around the clock in the holy sites to ensure the smooth operation of services. Over 150 local and international media outlets, represented by approximately 3,000 journalists, are participating in the coverage to witness and report on this year's Hajj rituals. To enhance transparency and communication, the government press conference hosted five ministers: the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah; the Minister of Municipalities and Housing, Majid Al-Hogail; the Minister of Transport and Logistics, Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser; the Minister of Health, Fahd Al-Jalajel; and the Minister of Media, to review the comprehensive preparations for the 1447 AH Hajj season.
Comprehensive preparedness and close monitoring of markets and mosques
In terms of religious and logistical services, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has completed its preparations to host more than 2,500 pilgrims, including families of martyrs and scholars from over 100 countries. Mosques in the holy sites have also been prepared, and more than two million copies of the Holy Quran, a gift from the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, have been distributed to over 20,000 mosques. To ensure market stability and meet the needs of pilgrims, the Ministry of Commerce has conducted more than 33,000 intensive inspection tours in Mecca and Medina to verify the availability of goods and food products, demonstrating the integrated efforts of all government sectors to serve the guests of God in the best possible way.
