Saudi Arabia enhances Hajj operations with AI as part of a broad effort to streamline procedures and prevent past tragedies.
The Interior Ministry confirmed the launch of advanced systems ahead of the 2025 pilgrimage season.
Hajj 2025 begins on June 4 and ends June 9, with more than 1.8 million pilgrims expected.
Authorities are preparing for increased demand while focusing on safety and order across Mecca and surrounding areas.
Colonel Talal Al-Shalhoub announced the rollout of the “Tasreeh” permit platform during a digital conference in Jeddah.
Developed with SDAIA, it handles permits for individuals and vehicles across government and security agencies.
Saudi Arabia enhances Hajj operations with AI through platforms like Sawaher and Baseer and uses drones and smart devices.
These tools support security personnel and monitor real-time crowd movement across key Hajj zones.
The changes follow the 2024 disaster that left over 1,300 undocumented pilgrims dead due to heat and overcrowding.
Many had attempted to perform Hajj without official permits, leading to uncontrolled surges in certain areas.
Al-Shalhoub warned of strict penalties for violators in 2025, targeting anyone trying to enter Mecca without a permit.
Fines will reach SAR 100,000 ($26,667) per person, including for those who assist or accommodate unpermitted individuals.
Vehicles used in violations will be confiscated by court ruling.
Transporters, agents, and hosts will all face legal consequences under new enforcement efforts.
Saudi Arabia enhances Hajj operations with AI while also issuing stricter health regulations for this year’s pilgrimage.
Individuals with complex conditions like cancer or heart, lung, kidney, or liver disease are banned from attending.
Egypt, in response to 2024 failures, revoked licenses from 36 travel agencies for violating Hajj regulations.
Pakistan’s Hajj ministry confirmed Saudi Arabia’s health-based exclusions ahead of the upcoming pilgrimage season.
Authorities continue implementing cooling systems, including water vapor sprays, to reduce heat stress for pilgrims.
Rising temperatures remain a concern, with the WMO forecasting record heat between 2024 and 2028.
