Latest news with #PilgrimExperienceProgram
Zawya
10-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ericsson and Mobily harness AI-powered solutions
Ericsson's collaboration with Mobily has helped support connectivity services for millions of pilgrims through AI The collaboration ensured reliable and seamless connectivity for pilgrims, even during peak periods. Centralized and distributed AI manages network orchestration and local decision-making, enabling Mobily to adapt to dynamic demands and improve service quality Mobily has collaborated with Ericsson (NASDAQ: ERIC) to leverage advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI)-powered capabilities to enhance the connectivity experience for millions of pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj season in Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This collaboration aligns with Saudi Arabia's Pilgrim Experience Program, enhancing digital services by leveraging Ericsson's technology to support social and national development. Mobily has benefited from multiple AI agents for network optimization by working seamlessly to intelligently detect and classify network anomalies, propose and evaluate recommended solutions, and enable zero-touch actuation. This was powered by solutions such as Uplink Interference Optimization from the Ericsson Cognitive Network Solutions portfolio, which had been successfully trialled last year. The proposals made, and actions taken, by the AI agents are part of a system of Explainable AI, meaning that each action and decision is available for examination through a range of reports, that can guide a user through the algorithm rationale to reach certain conclusions, avoiding the AI decision-making process being a 'black box'. Ericsson also provided a real-time network monitoring solution with interactive dashboards, offering Mobily deep, customized insights into network performance and the pilgrims' connectivity experiences for unparalleled service. Moreover, Ericsson customized AI-powered solutions have contributed to anomaly detection towards indoor solutions and proactive detection of failures or instant load spikes and thus enabled a proactive approach to mitigate coverage gaps on 1 minute resolution, ensuring exceptional service reliability during Hajj. The Uplink Interference Optimization module automation reached a L4 Autonomy maturity level for this interference management use case – as outlined by the TM Forum scale – a major milestone. Level 4 autonomy means a system that can look across different parts of a network, make decisions and actuate without human intervention based on what it 'knows' about service quality and customer experience. It uses artificial intelligence to predict problems before they happen and then automatically adjusts itself – monitoring traffic, rerouting data, or reallocating resources – to keep everything running smoothly. This achievement serves as a blueprint for how similar outcomes can be scaled through tailored customer journeys through the introduction of automation. This collaboration adopted a combination of centralized and distributed AI wherein Ericsson's centralized AI manages overall network orchestration and visibility, while distributed AI enables quick local decision-making in high-load density areas. This harmonized approach empowered Mobily to manage network traffic, enhance service quality in real-time, and adapt dynamically to the constantly changing needs of millions of pilgrims. This collaboration significantly improved the experience for millions of pilgrims by providing reliable, seamless connectivity, evidenced by remarkable improvements during Hajj, specifically in the Mina and Haram areas. Results showed a 15 percent improvement in Signal-to-Interference-plus-Noise Ratio (SINR), a nine-percent improvement in higher order modulation, seven percent enhancement in spectral efficiency and a 10 percent 5G throughput gain. These achievements enabled more efficient use of the network's spectrum without increasing capacity on actionable cells, alongside better communication quality with the increasing number of users. This enabled easy access to essential services, facilitated communication, and helped pilgrims navigate the holy sites with greater technological convenience. Alaa Malki, Chief Technology Officer at Mobily, says: 'This collaboration is essential in ensuring pilgrims enjoyed a smooth, connected experience during Hajj. By deploying Ericsson's AI-powered capabilities, we were able to optimize network performance, easing connectivity challenges at one of the world's busiest locations and setting a new standard for technological support in large-scale events. This reflects Mobily's commitment to digital transformation, service excellence, and the broader Saudi Vision 2030.' Håkan Cervell, Vice President and Head of Ericsson Saudi Arabia at Ericsson Europe, Middle East and Africa, says: 'Our work with Mobily demonstrates how responsible, scalable Artificial Intelligence can deliver immediate operational benefits in high-impact environments. The combination of centralized and distributed intelligence allowed Mobily to respond swiftly to changing conditions, ensuring consistent service quality for millions of pilgrims during Hajj. This deployment highlights our shared goal of driving innovation to elevate both user experience and operational agility while aligning with Saudi Vision 2030's ambition for enhanced digitized services for pilgrims.' Ericsson and Mobily have a longstanding partnership focused on advancing digital transformation in Saudi Arabia. Their collaboration on AI-powered network solutions supports millions of pilgrims and reinforces their shared commitment and vision of operational excellence, innovation, and reliable connectivity across the Kingdom. ABOUT ERICSSON: Ericsson's high-performing networks provide connectivity for billions of people every day. For nearly 150 years, we've been pioneers in creating technology for communication. We offer mobile communication and connectivity solutions for service providers and enterprises.
Leaders
06-07-2025
- Leaders
Pilgrim Experience Program Surpasses Targets with 101% Growth in 2024
The Pilgrim Experience Program, a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, released its 2024 annual report, boasting a 101% surge in arrivals compared to 2022, driven by streamlined procedures and cross-sector collaboration. This milestone underscores the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing spiritual journeys while aligning with global tourism goals. The report emphasizes the program's accomplishments and those of its affiliated entities in enhancing services for pilgrims and Umrah performers. The Kingdom strives to provide a rich, seamless, and spiritually fulfilling experience from the planning stage to the safe return home. Record Numbers of Pilgrims In 2024, over 18.5 million pilgrims and Umrah performers arrived from abroad, including 16.92 million Umrah performers, surpassing the year's targets significantly. The report highlights that 89 initiatives, implemented with over 40 government entities, achieved an impressive 95 percent compliance rate. These initiatives cover all stages of the pilgrim journey, including transportation, rituals, and visits to historical and religious sites. Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, the Minister of Hajj and Umrah, stated that the Saudi leadership prioritizes serving Hajj and Umrah pilgrims as a key goal of Vision 2030. Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifah welcomed more than 13 million visitors in 2024, a significant increase from 4 million in 2022. Visitor satisfaction also rose dramatically from 57 percent to 81 percent, reflecting improved service quality and overall experience. Growth in Volunteer Engagement Volunteer engagement saw substantial growth, with over 153,000 volunteers serving pilgrims in 2024. This number increased from just 15,000 in 2022, demonstrating a stronger culture of social participation within the community. Internationally, the program conducted 33 overseas visits with public and private partners. These visits addressed logistical challenges, opened new routes, increased seat capacity, and eased travel for pilgrims. The Hajj and Umrah minister emphasized that these achievements result from the dedicated efforts of more than 40 partner organizations. Globally, Makkah ranked fifth in international visitor numbers, while Madinah climbed to seventh in the global tourism performance index. These rankings reinforce Saudi Arabia's position as a leading spiritual and cultural destination for travelers worldwide. Advances in Digital Services The report also highlights significant advances in digital services, particularly the Nusuk platform. This platform now offers over 100 services designed to streamline travel, booking, and pilgrimage arrangements for users. Meanwhile, the Makkah Route initiative, aimed at expediting travel procedures for pilgrims in their home countries, has benefited over 940,000 travelers since its inception. This initiative showcases the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing the pilgrim experience. The report concludes by emphasizing that these milestones reflect the unwavering support of the Kingdom's leadership and the collaborative efforts of various government agencies. It reaffirms that serving pilgrims remains a top national priority, with ongoing innovation and integration to enhance their religious and cultural journey in alignment with Vision 2030 aspirations. Short link : Post Views: 7
CairoScene
20-06-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
Top Hajj Hospitality Centres Honoured With New Excellence Award
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched the Ekram Excellence Award to encourage innovation and service quality among hospitality centres serving Arab pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj season. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has launched the first edition of the Ekram Excellence Award for the 2025 Hajj season, a new initiative aimed at recognising outstanding hospitality centres affiliated with Ekram Al-Dayf—a division of Ashraqat company focused on serving Arab pilgrims. The award seeks to promote administrative and operational excellence among Hajj service providers, aligning with the ministry's broader Vision 2030 objectives and the Pilgrim Experience Program. By highlighting performance benchmarks and best practices, the initiative aims to foster healthy competition and improve service delivery during the pilgrimage. In addition to operational quality, the award criteria emphasise innovation, social responsibility, and volunteer engagement. These standards reflect a commitment to sustainable development and elevate the role of hospitality centres in shaping the overall pilgrim experience.
Saudi Gazette
10-06-2025
- Health
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Healthcare System provides nearly 200,000 services to pilgrims
Saudi Gazette report MAKKAH — Saudi Arabia's premier Healthcare System has provided with approximately 200,000 high-quality health services to pilgrims during the 2025 Hajj season. Health services were delivered through streamlined and accessible means, aligning with the goals of the Health Sector Transformation Program and the Pilgrim Experience Program—both part of Saudi Vision 2030—that aim to enable pilgrims to perform their rituals safely while receiving efficient medical care. The Ministry of Health affirmed that preventive measures and the coordinated efforts across the healthcare system led to the successful implementation of health plans during this Hajj season, with no recorded disease outbreaks or threats to public health. Joint coordination with other government entities ensured a safe and healthy environment, allowing pilgrims to complete their rituals with ease and peace of mind.
Saudi Gazette
09-06-2025
- Health
- Saudi Gazette
Al-Rabiah announces early Hajj 1447 preparations; Success of 1446 Hajj Season hailed
Saudi Gazette report MAKKAH — The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in cooperation with the Pilgrim Experience Program, held its annual Hajj concluding ceremony at the ministry headquarters in Makkah on Sunday. The event honored the recipients of the Labaytum Award for Excellence in Services to Pilgrims and celebrated the efforts of several pilgrim affairs offices and nonprofit organizations for their outstanding services during the current Hajj season. Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfiq Al-Rabiah announced the official handover of the preliminary arrangements document to pilgrim affairs offices in preparation for the 1447 AH Hajj season. This early step aims to enhance readiness and improve pilgrims' experience by enabling early contracts, site allocation, and service integration. Speaking on the occasion, the minister stressed that this year's Hajj season was successful by the grace of Allah, followed by the support and guidance of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman and the continuous direct supervision of Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. He noted that the integration of efforts among government agencies, private sector entities, and pilgrim affairs offices played a vital role in delivering a successful and seamless Hajj season. Al-Rabiah noted that the ministry has begun preparations for the next Hajj early by issuing the preliminary arrangements document, which allows pilgrim affairs offices to secure essential services in advance, ensuring operational stability and service quality. He stressed the importance of adhering to health eligibility regulations when registering pilgrims, per the requirements set by the Ministry of Health. The minister also announced that the Hajj and Umrah Conference and Exhibition is scheduled for November and invited all local and international partners to take advantage of this global platform to showcase innovations and exchange expertise in order to continuously enhance the quality of services provided to pilgrims.
