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Leaders
7 days ago
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia's AI-Driven Transformation of Hajj
Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of a groundbreaking transformation of the Hajj pilgrimage through the strategic deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. In alignment with its Vision 2030 initiative, the Kingdom is leveraging cutting-edge digital solutions to enhance the overall experience for millions of Muslims undertaking one of Islam's most sacred duties. By incorporating AI, Saudi Arabia aims not only to improve operational efficiency and safety but also to deepen the spiritual journey of the pilgrims through personalized, accessible, and secure services. Enhancing Crowd Management with AI One of the most critical challenges during the Hajj is managing the movement of millions of pilgrims in a confined area over a short period. To mitigate risks and improve logistical coordination, Saudi authorities have implemented sophisticated AI-powered surveillance and crowd control systems. These systems utilize advanced computer vision and machine learning algorithms to monitor crowd density, identify movement patterns, and detect potentially hazardous situations such as counter-directional flows or bottlenecks. Through real-time analytics, these tools support prompt interventions, thereby reducing the likelihood of stampedes and other crowd-related incidents. The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior's Special Forces for Hajj and Umrah Security, has developed proprietary AI models tailored to the unique dynamics of the pilgrimage. These tools also aid in locating missing individuals, reuniting families, and facilitating emergency responses with increased precision and speed. Introducing AI-Powered Robotic Assistance In an effort to provide pilgrims with instant, multilingual support, Saudi Arabia has deployed a new generation of AI-powered service robots, such as the 'Manarah 2.' These mobile robots are strategically stationed at key pilgrimage sites including the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Manarah 2 is equipped with touchscreens, high-definition cameras, and natural language processing capabilities. It can engage with users in 11 different languages—including Arabic, English, French, Urdu, Turkish, and Bahasa Indonesia—making it accessible to pilgrims from diverse linguistic backgrounds. The robots provide religious guidance, help with navigation, answer frequently asked questions, and explain the rites of Hajj and Umrah, enhancing both convenience and understanding. Implementing Smart Digital Services Complementing the physical robotic presence are several digital innovations designed to enrich the spiritual and practical aspects of the Hajj. Saudi Arabia has installed interactive smart screens throughout major holy sites, offering instant access to maps, prayer times, emergency services, and real-time updates. Another significant advancement is the introduction of a digital Qur'an platform, which supports audio and visual tools for recitation, translation, and learning. Pilgrims can engage with sacred texts using mobile devices or dedicated kiosks, allowing for a more immersive and personalized spiritual experience. Furthermore, mobile apps and wearable devices have been rolled out to provide navigation, health monitoring, and prayer scheduling, creating a comprehensive smart ecosystem that supports pilgrims before, during, and after their journey. Prioritizing Data Privacy, Security As digital systems increasingly collect and process personal and biometric data, Saudi Arabia has taken proactive steps to safeguard user privacy. The Kingdom has implemented the Personal Data Protection Law to establish clear guidelines on data collection, storage, and usage. This legal framework ensures that all digital services operate in compliance with stringent privacy standards, providing transparency and control to users over their data. Pilgrims can thus participate in technology-driven services with the assurance that their information is being handled responsibly and ethically. Model for Future Pilgrimages Saudi Arabia's integration of AI into the management and enhancement of the Hajj pilgrimage serves as a global benchmark for how technology can elevate the quality and safety of large-scale religious events. By prioritizing innovation without compromising the sanctity of the pilgrimage, the Kingdom is setting new standards in hospitality, security, and spiritual facilitation. This AI-driven transformation is not merely a logistical improvement—it represents a visionary reimagining of religious pilgrimage in the 21st century. Through its fusion of tradition and technology, Saudi Arabia is paving the way for future generations to experience the Hajj in a manner that is more accessible, meaningful, and secure than ever before. Related Topics : Saudi Crown Prince Welcomes Pilgrims, Reinforces Hajj 2025 Preparations Hajj 2025 Season Begins: Saudi Arabia Welcomes First Pilgrims Eco-Pilgrimage Revolution: Fashion Commission Unveils 'Sustainable Ihram Initiative' 'Glorifying the Sacred Land' Opens Door to Volunteering for Ramadan, Hajj Seasons 1446 Short link : Post Views: 1
Zawya
22-05-2025
- Zawya
SDAIA deploys AI solutions to streamline pilgrim entry at Jeddah airport and Islamic Port
RIYADH — The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) has deployed data and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies at King Abdulaziz International Airport and Jeddah Islamic Port to streamline entry procedures for pilgrims. The effort included preparing technical infrastructure at designated entry points to accommodate Hajj arrivals by air and sea. SDAIA provides comprehensive technical and operational support to ensure smooth operations at the Hajj terminals of King Abdulaziz International Airport. This includes equipping workstations, integrating them with government systems, preparing data centers, and securing primary and backup communication services to ensure uninterrupted functionality. SDAIA also installed and activated biometric stations at the airport, upgraded devices with certified systems, and trained personnel from partner agencies on the use of Hajj-specific platforms and systems—contributing to reduced processing times for pilgrims. In addition, the national integrated app Tawakkalna offers a suite of services tailored for Hajj, including the display of permits issued through the unified digital platform for Hajj authorization, known as the Makkah Entry Permit Portal. The portal issues licenses and permits for both domestic and international Hajj pilgrims, authorizing access to Makkah and the holy sites through technical integration with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah via the Nusuk platform. © Copyright 2022 The Saudi Gazette. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Saudi Gazette
21-05-2025
- Saudi Gazette
SDAIA deploys AI solutions to streamline pilgrim entry at Jeddah airport and Islamic Port
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) has deployed data and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies at King Abdulaziz International Airport and Jeddah Islamic Port to streamline entry procedures for pilgrims. The effort included preparing technical infrastructure at designated entry points to accommodate Hajj arrivals by air and sea. SDAIA provides comprehensive technical and operational support to ensure smooth operations at the Hajj terminals of King Abdulaziz International Airport. This includes equipping workstations, integrating them with government systems, preparing data centers, and securing primary and backup communication services to ensure uninterrupted functionality. SDAIA also installed and activated biometric stations at the airport, upgraded devices with certified systems, and trained personnel from partner agencies on the use of Hajj-specific platforms and systems—contributing to reduced processing times for pilgrims. In addition, the national integrated app Tawakkalna offers a suite of services tailored for Hajj, including the display of permits issued through the unified digital platform for Hajj authorization, known as the Makkah Entry Permit Portal. The portal issues licenses and permits for both domestic and international Hajj pilgrims, authorizing access to Makkah and the holy sites through technical integration with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah via the Nusuk platform.
Arabian Business
21-05-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Saudi businesses look to AI to power marketing amid $135bn GDP push
Saudi Arabia is emerging as the Middle East's most ambitious AI powerhouse, investing more than $20bn in artificial intelligence as part of its Vision 2030 strategy. The goal is not only to diversify the Kingdom's economy, but to become a global leader in emerging technologies, with retail, marketing, and customer engagement among the fastest evolving sectors. According to PwC Middle East, AI is expected to contribute up to $135bn to Saudi Arabia's GDP by 2030, accounting for nearly 12.4 per cent of the national economy. AI in Saudi Arabia The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) and the National Strategy for Data and AI (NSDAI) are leading the charge in advancing government and enterprise adoption of AI tools from predictive analytics to automated content creation. 'Saudi Arabia is not just embracing innovation; we are shaping a future where technology enhances every aspect of daily life,' said Prince Saud bin Salman Al Saud, speaking at the Global AI Summit 2024 in Riyadh. 'AI is our tool for empowerment across retail, education, and governance — and we are actively inviting innovators to help us lead this transformation.' Across sectors, Saudi businesses are accelerating their investment in AI-powered solutions that drive efficiency, reduce costs, and personalise customer interactions. The retail industry, in particular, is undergoing a major shift with localised content, dynamic creative automation, and real-time campaign adaptation becoming the norm. Statista projects that Saudi Arabia's AI-powered marketing and advertising industry will reach $2.4bn by 2028. William Li, CEO of FancyTech, said: 'AI is not about replacing creativity, it's about scaling it intelligently. We see Saudi Arabia as a growth engine where brands are eager to combine data, culture, and creativity to deliver impactful experiences.' FancyTech enables businesses to generate hyper-targeted content from social media visuals to digital storefront assets up to three times faster and at significantly lower production costs. After a successful global rollout across Asia and Europe, FancyTech officially entered the GCC market in 2024, with Dubai serving as its MENA headquarters. Retailers and marketers in KSA are increasingly shifting from static creative budgets to dynamic AI-enabled ecosystems. This allows real-time testing, multiple campaign variants, and adaptive storytelling tailored to audience behaviour all critical in a nation where more than 70 per cent of the population is under the age of 35 and deeply connected to digital platforms.
Zawya
21-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saudi Arabia's $135bln AI boom fuels retail transformation with FancyTech among global innovators powering the shift
As Vision 2030 fuels AI integration across commerce and marketing, international players like FancyTech are aligning with Saudi ambitions to deliver scalable, personalized, and data-driven brand experiences KSA - Saudi Arabia is emerging as the Middle East's most ambitious AI powerhouse, investing more than US$20 billion in artificial intelligence as part of its Vision 2030 strategy. The goal is not only to diversify the Kingdom's economy but to become a global leader in emerging technologies, with retail, marketing, and customer engagement among the fastest evolving sectors. According to PwC Middle East, AI is expected to contribute up to US$135 billion to Saudi Arabia's GDP by 2030, accounting for nearly 12.4 percent of the national economy. The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) and the National Strategy for Data & AI (NSDAI) are leading the charge in advancing government and enterprise adoption of AI tools from predictive analytics to automated content creation. 'Saudi Arabia is not just embracing innovation; we are shaping a future where technology enhances every aspect of daily life,' said Prince Saud bin Salman Al Saud, speaking at the Global AI Summit 2024 in Riyadh. 'AI is our tool for empowerment across retail, education, and governance — and we are actively inviting innovators to help us lead this transformation.' Across sectors, Saudi businesses are accelerating their investment in AI-powered solutions that drive efficiency, reduce costs, and personalise customer interactions. The retail industry, in particular, is undergoing a major shift with localised content, dynamic creative automation, and real-time campaign adaptation becoming the norm. Statista projects that Saudi Arabia's AI-powered marketing and advertising industry will reach US$2.4 billion by 2028. 'AI is not about replacing creativity, it's about scaling it intelligently,' said Mr William Li, CEO of FancyTech. 'We see Saudi Arabia as a growth engine where brands are eager to combine data, culture, and creativity to deliver impactful experiences.' FancyTech, a global AI-powered content technology company, is redefining how brands create, personalise, and scale visual campaigns across the retail and digital landscape. Known for its end-to-end AI solutions, FancyTech enables businesses to generate hyper-targeted content from social media visuals to digital storefront assets up to three times faster and at significantly lower production costs. Its dynamic creative capabilities allow marketers to test multiple variations in real time, enhancing both efficiency and engagement. After a successful global rollout across Asia and Europe, FancyTech officially entered the GCC market in 2024, with Dubai serving as its MENA headquarters. The company has since partnered with leading retailers and e-commerce players in the region and was recently honored at the FancyTech A&M Awards 2025 in Dubai, a regional platform recognizing excellence in AI-powered retail marketing. With accolades including the LVMH Innovation Award and a place on Forbes Asia's '100 to Watch' list, FancyTech is now actively expanding its footprint in Saudi Arabia aligning with the Kingdom's push for AI-led transformation in commerce, marketing, and consumer experience. Retailers and marketers in KSA are increasingly shifting from static creative budgets to dynamic AI-enabled ecosystems. This allows real-time testing, multiple campaign variants, and adaptive storytelling tailored to audience behavior all critical in a nation where over 70% of the population is under the age of 35 and deeply connected to digital platforms. Innovative Saudi brands, including emerging retailers and financial service firms, are already integrating AI into their operations to gain a competitive edge. The market is also seeing rising interest from regional agencies, cloud providers, and tech startups offering AI solutions tailored for the Arabic-speaking population and local consumer preferences. As the Kingdom continues to expand its AI footprint, global and local collaboration will be key. Platforms like FancyTech are well-positioned to serve as AI accelerators, enabling Saudi companies to fast-track innovation while retaining cultural relevance and brand authenticity.
