Riyadh: The Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) has concluded its operational plan for the 1447 AH Hajj season: Deploying an integrated digital system driven by advanced data and artificial intelligence technologies, SDAIA empowered participating government agencies to enhance operational efficiency and streamline the entire Hajj journey.
According to Saudi Press Agency, in a key partnership with the Ministry of Interior, SDAIA introduced a smart mobile device that captures biometric data, takes facial images, and reads passports in a record time of under 40 seconds per pilgrim. This technology allowed authorities to verify travel documents and visas with high accuracy while accelerating automatic procedures, particularly for elderly individuals and people with disabilities.
SDAIA maintained comprehensive technical support across 75 locations in the holy sites and 14 screening and security control centers. This scope encompassed managing secure infrastructure rooms, equipping workstations under approved cybersecurity standards, conducting preventative maintenance, and training field personnel to ensure work continuity at all ports and checkpoints.
Advanced crowd management was anchored by the "Sawaher" platform, which utilized 16 artificial intelligence algorithms and 31 data dashboards to process real-time feeds from over 5,000 cameras across 80 locations. The AI-driven "Baseer" platform used computer vision and large language models to analyze crowd flows at the entrances of the Two Holy Mosques, providing field commanders with rapid analytical data to prevent congestion and secure pilgrim safety.