Saudi Arabia is deploying AI and advanced technologies to enhance safety and security during the Hajj and Umrah seasons
The King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), in partnership with the General Directorate of Public Security at the Ministry of Interior, has developed the smart “Roya” platform, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. It leverages artificial intelligence, remote sensing technologies, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to support security and operational activities in the holy sites, facilitating fast and accurate decision-making.
The platform includes the analysis of satellite imagery and geospatial data to study traffic movement and monitor crowd density, while also delivering field indicators that support security authorities in managing critical locations, helping to improve pilgrims’ experience and enhance safety and operational efficieincy across the holy sites.
The platform also offers advanced analyses of thermal zones and land surface temperature variations in Makkah and the holy sites, in addition to detecting irregular patterns and transforming data into spatial reports.
KACST explained that the Roya platform currently displays nearly 2,000 satellite images from the current and previous seasons, in addition to 126 aerial imaging operations covering Makkah, Madinah, the holy sites, and the roads leading to them. The platform also provides urban heat island monitoring services, offering a more comprehensive environmental and climate assessment to support monitoring and field analysis activities.
Operated by KACST, the Roya platform is connected to the General Directorate of Public Security’s network through the Command and Control Center. It features an interactive interface that enables real-time data visualisation, contributing to improved services for pilgrims and enhanced operational readiness in high-density locations.
The platform is part of the National Laboratory’s efforts at KACST to develop technological solutions and build smart platforms, supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 in strengthening a knowledge-based and innovation-driven digital economy.
During this year’s Hajj season, the Sawaher platform was deployed to enhance crowd management and bolster security at the holy sites and their access points. Spearheaded by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority in partnership with the Ministry of Interior, it utilises over 5,000 cameras across 80 locations, supported by 31 data dashboards, 16 artificial intelligence algorithms, and more than 600 operators.
Sawaher connects camera networks to advanced operations rooms for round-the-clock monitoring of high-density areas. The platform analyses real-time data on crowd movement and human flows, enabling authorities to make rapid, data-driven decisions. This proactive capability allows security teams to respond instantly to shifting field conditions, accurately count pilgrims, mitigate congestion, and ensure a safe and seamless Hajj experience.
