Saudi Arabia plans to enhance its technology use by deploying smart AI cameras to detect unregistered pilgrims, especially after several fatalities during the recent Hajj pilgrimage due to extreme heat.
The Ministry of Hajj will partner with an information technology firm to create an advanced system. This system will identify pilgrims upon arrival, track their boarding on buses, and monitor their entry into residences in Mecca and other sacred sites.
The setup will also compile electronic lists of boarding and housing by installing smart cameras and other tech solutions.
This technology will facilitate communication with pilgrims and provide easy access to their data. The ministry aims to ensure that the new techniques are user-friendly, easy to operate, and compatible with other systems while relying on reliable technologies.
The planned network will cover entrances and exits of Mecca, other holy sites, checkpoints, access points to the two holy mosques in Mecca and Medina, bus parking areas, King Abdulaziz airport in Jeddah, and Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz airport in Medina – key hubs for international Hajj pilgrims.
The recent Hajj in June saw over 1,300 undocumented pilgrims die due to long treks under scorching heat. Saudi authorities have emphasized the necessity of a Hajj visa for the pilgrimage and have cracked down on fake tours. A visit visa does not permit one to perform Hajj.
Hajj, one of Islam’s five pillars, is obligatory for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey at least once in their lifetime.
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