Latest news with #smarttechnologies
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Matarat Holding and Thales to boost digital transformation in Saudi Arabia's airport sector
Matarat and Thales will explore applications of smart technologies to modernize airport operations and management, driving digital transformation across Matarat's network. The partnership will also enable the implementation of advanced digital platforms and next-generation infrastructures in Matarat Airports. Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia – Matarat Holding has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Thales, a global leader in advanced technologies. This strategic partnership, signed at Passenger Terminal Expo in Madrid, Spain, seeks to drive innovation, operational efficiency, and improved passenger experience through digital solutions and collaborative technological advancements. Matarat Holding leads manage the operations of 27 airports in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia through its subsidiaries (Riyadh Airports, Jeddah Airports, Dammam Airports, and Cluster 2), and the MoU establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperation across multiple strategic areas of aviation development. Through this partnership, Thales will implement its expertise in smart technologies to modernize airport operations and management, driving digital transformation across Matarat's subsidiaries. The collaboration will focus on sharing innovation and best practices to enhance service quality, streamline operational processes, and adopt future-ready solutions that set new industry standards. A key priority of the agreement is enhancing the traveler experience by leveraging Thales's advanced capabilities in AI, biometrics, automation, and data-driven systems to create seamless andsecure passenger journeys. The partnership will also enable the implementation of advanced digital platforms and next-generation infrastructure in Matarat Airports. Bernard Roux, CEO of Thales in Saudi Arabia and Central Asia, emphasized the partnership's significance: "This collaboration with Matarat Holding represents a transformative step in reshaping the future of Saudi aviation. By combining Thales's expertise in digital transformation with Matarat's operational excellence, we are not just implementing technologies - we are co-creating a smart and safe aviation ecosystem. Our joint solutions in AI, cybersecurity and connected systems will set new benchmarks for operational efficiency, enhanced passenger experience, and national security, directly contributing to the Kingdom's Vision 2030 ambitions to become a global aviation leader."
Gulf Business
21-05-2025
- Gulf Business
Hajj 2025: 5 ways in which Saudi is revolutionising pilgrimage with AI, tech
Image credit: Getty Images Saudi Arabia is revolutionising the pilgrimage experience through a suite of smart technologies and AI-driven platforms that streamline travel, enhance religious services, and ensure the comfort and safety of millions of Hajj pilgrims. From digital guidance apps in Madinah to smart transportation systems in Makkah and AI-powered support at international airports, these innovations reflect the country's commitment to Vision 2030 and its goal of delivering world-class services to pilgrims from around the globe. Read- The country is leveraging the latest in digital innovation to improve the pilgrimage experience for millions of visitors each year. With a focus on smart technologies and AI-driven applications, the country is enhancing services across various aspects of the pilgrimage, from crowd management and health services to transportation and religious guidance. These advancements are part of Saudi Arabia's broader digital transformation agenda aligned with the nation's Vision 2030. Smart platforms transform pilgrims' experience in Madinah In Madinah, a series of digital platforms are providing pilgrims with real-time guidance and support. The Nusuk platform stands out as a key tool, allowing users to book appointments to visit the Holy Rawdah at the Prophet's Mosque. Health applications, including Tawakkalna, give pilgrims immediate access to medical services, ensuring their health and well-being throughout their stay, a Additionally, digital maps and interactive guides are available to help pilgrims navigate Madinah's landmarks and public facilities, easing their journey and enhancing their experience in the holy city. AI-powered features are also making it easier for pilgrims to obtain real-time responses to their queries in multiple languages, further simplifying their pilgrimage. Smart transportation solutions in Makkah In Makkah, the Makkah Bus Guidance Center is leading the way in optimising pilgrim transportation. Equipped with smart technology, the center ensures buses carrying pilgrims from abroad are efficiently routed to their accommodations in Makkah City. The Arshidni ('guide me') smart platform integrates with the Nusuk Masar platform, providing accurate Guides use modern tablets to receive real-time updates, allowing the control room to monitor bus routes live and manage guide assignments. This system enhances operational efficiency, ensuring pilgrims reach their accommodations smoothly and on time. AI-Powered 'Smart Enrichment Assistant' at the Prophet's Mosque The Agency for Religious Affairs at the Prophet's Mosque has launched the Launched in the presence of prominent religious leaders, the app aligns with the Presidency's strategy to integrate technology into the service of the Two Holy Mosques, reflecting Saudi Arabia's commitment to modernising its religious services while maintaining a message of moderation. Streamlined luggage handling with Makkah Route Initiative To further ease the pilgrimage experience, Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Interior has introduced a luggage coding and sorting system under the Makkah Route Initiative. Pilgrims' luggage is t Upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, luggage is efficiently transported to pilgrims' accommodations in Makkah and Madinah, reducing the stress of luggage handling and allowing pilgrims to focus on their spiritual journey. This initiative is part of the country's efforts to streamline travel procedures and enhance pilgrim convenience. SDAIA expands services at International Hajj Gateway The Using advanced AI systems, SDAIA's team ensures that pilgrims are processed efficiently, with no delays, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's commitment to offering high-quality services to Hajj pilgrims from around the world. These technological advancements reflect Saudi Arabia's ongoing dedication to modernizing the pilgrimage process, improving services for millions of pilgrims each year, and fulfilling the objectives of Vision 2030.
