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Leaders
a day ago
- General
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia Enhances Hajj Experience with Free High-Speed Internet Access
Saudi Arabia is revolutionizing the Hajj experience by providing free, high-speed internet access to every pilgrim this year. This initiative transforms the spiritual journey into one of the most digitally connected events on Earth. The Kingdom has deployed over 10,500 WiFi access points throughout Mecca, Medina, and the holy sites. This extensive network eliminates the need for visitors to search for connectivity during the world's largest religious gathering. According to Saad Al Shanbari, spokesperson for the Hajj Communications and Technology System, this initiative enriches pilgrims' spiritual and logistical experiences through seamless connectivity. 'There's no need to search for WiFi,' he stated. 'Internet access is now available for all pilgrims, everywhere.' Advanced Network Infrastructure for Pilgrims In addition to the WiFi rollout, the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) has implemented 100% 4G and 5G network coverage across Mecca, Medina, and the holy sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. This advanced infrastructure supports high data volumes while ensuring reliable connectivity for both pilgrims and operations personnel. The commission also launched an AI-driven crowd management system in partnership with Aramco Digital. This system uses advanced surveillance cameras and specialized communication networks to monitor crowd flow and safety in real time. 'This year, we've deployed smart surveillance systems in partnership with Aramco Digital to manage crowd flows through AI-based monitoring and secure communications networks,' Al Shanbari added. He noted that over 4,000 telecom personnel have mobilized to support pilgrims during the Hajj season. With these advancements, Saudi Arabia ensures that every pilgrim enjoys a connected and safe Hajj experience. Saudi Arabia's commitment to integrating advanced technology into the Hajj experience sets a new standard. Pilgrims can now focus more on their spiritual journey with the assurance of seamless connectivity and enhanced safety measures. This year's Hajj promises to be a transformative experience, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology. Short link : Post Views: 2
CairoScene
23-05-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
Pilgrims Can Now Activate eSIM Cards Upon Arrival in Saudi Arabia
Pilgrims arriving in the Kingdom can activate eSIMs instantly through local telecom apps, bypassing in-person service centres. Pilgrims visiting Saudi Arabia for Hajj and Umrah can now digitally activate eSIM cards upon arrival, thanks to a new initiative launched by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), the Ministry of Interior (MoI), and licensed telecom providers. The system allows pilgrims to request eSIMs from local operators and verify their identity using biometric data through the Absher platform, enabling activation without the need to visit a store or wait until reaching their accommodation. The move aims to simplify access to mobile services, ensuring pilgrims are connected from the moment they enter the Kingdom. It forms part of CST's wider strategy to enhance digital services for pilgrims in line with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.
Saudi Gazette
21-05-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Pilgrims can now activate eSIM cards digitally upon arrival in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Gazette report JEDDAH — Authorities in Saudi Arabia have enabled international pilgrims to activate eSIM cards directly through service provider applications, offering seamless digital connectivity upon arrival in the Kingdom. The joint initiative is led by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), in partnership with the Ministry of Interior (MoI) and licensed telecom providers. The service allows pilgrims to request eSIM cards from local providers, which are then verified and activated digitally via biometric verification through the 'Absher' platform. This process ensures that pilgrims are connected as soon as they arrive, eliminating the need to visit service branches or wait until reaching their accommodation. The initiative is part of CST's broader efforts to support pilgrims through innovative digital reflects the Kingdom's commitment to enhancing the user experience and highlights the integration between government entities and private sector players in serving visitors to the Holy Mosque.
CairoScene
20-05-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
Over 1 in 5 Internet Users in Saudi Arabia Utilise AI Tools
New figures show 21.5% of Saudi internet users engage with AI tools, driven by strong adoption among young adults. More than one in five internet users in Saudi Arabia actively use artificial intelligence tools, according to new data from the Kingdom's Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). The report reveals that 21.5% of users engage with AI-driven platforms, underscoring the country's growing digital maturity and rapid adoption of emerging technologies. The highest rate of usage was recorded among individuals aged 20 to 29, with 27.3% of this group reporting regular use of AI tools. These include applications for smart translation, virtual assistance, content generation, and data analysis—technologies increasingly integrated into both professional and personal settings. The CST noted that this uptake reflects broader digital transformation efforts across the Kingdom, as part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 agenda. Expanded infrastructure, rising digital literacy, and increasing awareness of AI's utility have all contributed to its mainstream use. By comparison, a 2024 global survey by Statista found that around 15% of internet users worldwide regularly interact with AI tools, with the highest rates in the U.S. (19%) and China (22%). Saudi Arabia's 21.5% figure positions it among the leading adopters globally, particularly in the Middle East.
Saudi Gazette
18-05-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
21.5% of internet users in Saudi Arabia utilize AI tools
Saudi Gazette report RIYADH — About 21.5percent of internet users in Saudi Arabia actively use various artificial intelligence (AI) applications, according to the Saudi Internet 2024 report issued by the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST). The report revealed that the age group between 20 and 29 years is the most engaged with AI tools, with a usage rate of 27.3 percent. This reflects the demographic awareness of the role modern technologies play in enhancing quality of life across professional, educational, and entertainment domains. This shows that the internet sector in Saudi Arabia is experiencing rapid digital transformation, driven by rising technological awareness and the expansion of digital infrastructure. The CST report highlighted that the widespread adoption of AI is supported by the availability of diverse applications such as smart translation, virtual assistants, content generation, and data analysis. This trend reinforces Saudi Arabia's position as a regional hub for innovation and digital transformation. The Saudi Internet 2024 report serves as a key reference for tracking major internet indicators in the Kingdom. Published annually, it offers valuable insights into user behavior and evolving technology trends.
