Saudi AI system enhances Hajj security, management

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Sawaher was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and uses data and AI technology. (SPA)
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Sawaher was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and uses data and AI technology. (SPA)
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Sawaher was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and uses data and AI technology. (SPA)
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Sawaher was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and uses data and AI technology. (SPA)
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Updated 06 June 2025
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Saudi AI system enhances Hajj security, management

MAKKAH: The Saudi Data and AI Authority has supported government efforts for this year’s Hajj season through its Sawaher system, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Friday.

Sawaher was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Interior and uses data and AI technology to analyze broadcasts, video recordings, and images captured by smart cameras.

The initiative enhances analytical capabilities and contributes to a safer Hajj experience, the SPA reported.

The system helps manage and analyze large datasets and produces tailored analysis of pilgrims’ behavior. It “uses advanced algorithms for density and crowd counting, supporting government agencies in implementing Hajj plans and estimating pilgrim numbers.” The system also provides real-time updates.

For Hajj, more than 5,000 cameras have been integrated into the Sawaher system, covering more than 80 permanent and seasonal locations across the holy sites and key entry points.

This network supports the work of 18 government agencies and more than 600 personnel, according to the SPA.

The system offers more than 80 services and is operable on 100 workstations in operations rooms and monitoring centers, contributing to improved response efficiency during the Hajj season.


Saudi Arabia rejects Israel’s recognition of Somaliland

a general view of the city of Hargeisa, capital and largest city of the self-proclaimed Republic of Somaliland. (AFP)
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Saudi Arabia rejects Israel’s recognition of Somaliland

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia on Friday expressed full support for the sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity of Somalia, and expressed its rejection of the declaration of mutual recognition between Israel and Somaliland.

Israel on Friday formally recognized Somaliland as an “independent and sovereign state” and signed an agreement to establish diplomatic ties, as the region’s leader hailed its first-ever official recognition.

The Kingdom affirmed its rejection of any attempts to impose parallel entities that conflict with the unity of Somalia, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It also affirmed its support for the legitimate institutions of the Somali state, and its keenness to preserve the stability of Somalia and its people.

Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991, has for decades pushed for international recognition, the key priority for president Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi since he took office last year.