Artificial intelligence in Hajj: How did technology make a difference?
Experts confirmed to Al-Youm that the use of artificial intelligence and advanced digital technologies in Hajj is no longer merely a recreational option or a supporting tool, but has become a fundamental pillar and a strategic enabler for making a real difference in crowd management and facilitating the rituals of pilgrims during the 1447 AH (2026 CE) Hajj season. This season exemplified the fruits of the massive investments made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in digital infrastructure, in line with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
From traditional organization to digital leadership
Over the past decades, Hajj season management has witnessed tremendous development. Whereas organizational operations once relied entirely on human resources and traditional mechanisms to guide millions of pilgrims and ensure their safety, the Kingdom gradually moved towards digitizing services. This journey began with the launch of electronic portals and smartphone applications, culminating in the integration of 5G and Internet of Things technologies. Today, this historic path is crowned by the comprehensive adoption of smart technologies, resulting in an unprecedented leap in operational efficiency and the accuracy of crowd prediction.
The “Nusk” smart card and technology-based security control
Ayman Bana, a specialist in social responsibility and enhancing the Hajj experience, explained that this year's Hajj represents the pinnacle of digital and organizational transformation, as the slogan "No Hajj without a permit" was translated into tangible reality thanks to the "Nusk" smart card, available in both print and digital versions. He pointed out that the technical integration between various entities contributed to automating permits through unified government platforms, supported by security checkpoints that utilize computer vision systems to facilitate the movement of authorized pilgrims and ensure their safety.
How does artificial intelligence contribute to crowd management during Hajj?
For his part, Dr. Wael Al-Halabi, a specialist in crowd management, affirmed that the Cabinet's designation of 2026 as the Year of Artificial Intelligence reflects the strategic importance of these technologies. Al-Halabi revealed that his company has implemented more than 20 AI-based technologies during Hajj, benefiting over 600,000 pilgrims by enabling real-time monitoring of operational observations and service quality, thus facilitating rapid intervention to prevent overcrowding in the holy sites.
Advanced cybersecurity measures to protect the data of millions of pilgrims
In a related context, cybersecurity engineer Mohammed Qutb emphasized that this rapid digital transformation necessitates strengthening cybersecurity systems, especially when dealing with sensitive data belonging to millions of pilgrims. He explained that building secure, intelligent systems ensures the continuity of services and addresses any potential digital threats, thus making the Hajj experience safer and more reliable, both technically and personally.
A global impact that reinforces the Kingdom's leadership in crowd management
For his part, artificial intelligence researcher Dr. Radi Al-Zwaid described the success of the Hajj season as a shining example reflecting the continued support of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman – may God protect them both. The impact of this technological success is not limited to the local level; it extends internationally, sending a clear message to the world about the Kingdom's ability to lead technological innovation and manage the largest annual human gathering with complete efficiency, setting a new global standard from which international organizations can benefit in managing major events.
