Mecca 2025: AI and drones protect over two million pilgrims

Mecca 2025: AI and drones protect over two million pilgrims

On Wednesday, June 4, 2025, one of the most important religious events for Muslims worldwide begins: the Haj. Over a million pilgrims are expected to make their way to Mecca to hold the ritual processes around the Kaaba, the central sanctuary of Islam. The Hadsch is one of the five pillars of Islam and is for all believing Muslims who are physically and financially able to do at least once in life.

The Saudi Arabic authorities took extensive measures this year to ensure the safety of the pilgrims. After the tragic incident in 2024, in which over 1,300 people were killed in the extreme heat of over 51 degrees Celsius, sanitary services and security measures are top priority. Thousands of paramedics are in action and numerous water nellers and shadow -giving areas have been set up.

technological progress to improve security

Saudi Arabia is increasingly relating to modern technologies to make the Hajsch safer. Drones and artificial intelligence (AI) support the authorities in efficiently steering up to two million pilgrims and recognizing potential dangers at an early stage. Before the holidays, 1.2 million pilgrims gathered in Saudi Arabia, and the Haysch Ministry has set up a command center to coordinate the course of the pilgrimage. By using a special app called Nusuk, pilgrims can book travel packages that include hotels and transport, and find out about current aspects of the Hajsch.

The Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence (SDAIA) uses surveillance cameras and AI-controlled systems to analyze the movements in Mecca. Sensors measure the number of pilgrims at central points, while drones in emergencies can transport medication within just six minutes. This technological support is particularly important in critical situations, such as the "Devil's Stone Found" in Mina, to avoid mass panics.

campaign against unregistered pilgrims

Another goal of the Saudi authorities is the control of the unregistered pilgrims. In order to ensure security, almost 270,000 people were stopped before this year's Hadsch. This measure comes in the course of the efforts to minimize the risk of heat shells and other dangers, as they were observed last year with over a thousand deaths. Temperatures in the region sometimes reach up to 52 degrees, and up to 47 degrees are forecast for Mecca.

The supply of pilgrims and the management of the masses are not only social, but also economic challenges. The Hadsch represents an important source of income for Saudi Arabia and is part of the comprehensive modernization strategy of Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. The integration of modern techniques into the pilgrimage not only intends security, but also the improvement of the entire experience for the faithful.

The upcoming Haj 2025 is therefore not only in the sign of faith, but also in the focus of the innovative technologies that aim to make the pilgrimage safe and efficient. The preparation and implementation of this religious practice reflects Saudi Arabia's efforts to combine tradition and modernity in order to meet millions of believers.