Smart tech smooths the way for Hajj pilgrims

In collaboration with the Saudi Data and Artificial AI Authority, the Ministry of Interior is utilizing latest artificial intelligence in managing crowds during Hajj season. (AN Photo: Abdulrahman Alshalhoub)
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Updated 28 June 2023
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Smart tech smooths the way for Hajj pilgrims

  • Ministry of Interior utilizes AI to ensure safe and efficient movement of pilgrims and vehicles during Hajj

MUZDALIFAH: Saudi authorities have turned to artificial intelligence to help manage and monitor crowds during the 2023 Hajj season.

In collaboration with the Saudi Data and Artificial AI Authority, the Ministry of Interior is utilizing AI to ensure safe and efficient movement of pilgrims and vehicles during Hajj.

A Twitter post by the MoI showed how the ministry and SDAIA are making use of modern technology to monitor the movement of pilgrims within Makkah and its holy sites.

 

 

Technology being exploited includes the Sawaher and Baseer portals, which ensure security control at Makkah entry points. The technology also includes an advanced data analysis application.

The portals and the application, in addition to AI-driven surveillance cameras, also aim to monitor the pilgrims movement and control the mass management process.

Smart technology ensures a smooth and secure Hajj season in support of one of the Saudi Vision 2030 programs, which aims to enhance the pilgrims’ experience.


Riyadh forum to discuss AI impact on education, jobs

The conference aims to redefine work and human capacity building to meet future labor market demands. (SPA)
Updated 12 January 2026
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Riyadh forum to discuss AI impact on education, jobs

  • The exhibition will give young people direct access to educational, training, career, and technological opportunities while enabling them to learn from leading local and international experiences to shape their future careers

RIYADH: Experts from more than 50 international and local organizations in education, employment, and artificial intelligence will gather in Riyadh from Jan. 28-29 for the International Conference on Data and AI Capacity Building to explore the future of education during rapid AI advances.

Discussions will examine how AI is transforming work, its implications for current and future generations, and the new opportunities it creates, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

Organized by the Saudi Data and AI Authority, the conference aims to redefine work and human capacity building to meet future labor market demands.

Participants will present practical solutions for empowering young people with AI skills, integrating AI into education, and aligning learning outcomes with the most in-demand future skills locally and globally.

By addressing AI’s evolving impact on the job market, the conference offers academics, AI and data professionals, policymakers, and students a platform to exchange insights and explore the latest innovations for societal benefit and national development.

An accompanying exhibition will highlight cutting-edge educational and digital transformation solutions from public and private sector organizations.

The exhibition will give young people direct access to educational, training, career, and technological opportunities while enabling them to learn from leading local and international experiences to shape their future careers.