Drones in Makkah: A New Chapter in Pilgrimage Security
Saudi Arabia has initiated the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to detect and deter unauthorized Hajj pilgrims from entering Makkah, a move that reflects the Kingdom’s increasing reliance on technology for public order and religious management.
According to official sources, the drones are already operational and proving effective. Saudi media reports state that numerous illegal entrants are being apprehended each day based on drone-assisted surveillance. In one recent operation, four Indonesian nationals were arrested for promoting counterfeit Hajj services. That arrest led to a broader crackdown, with 14 others detained from a local residence, none carrying valid documentation.
Compliance with Hajj Permit Requirements
Saudi Arabia mandates that all pilgrims carry approved Hajj permits, issued through strict registration channels. These permits are crucial for managing logistics, public health, and accommodation capacity, especially amid record-breaking attendance each year.
Enhancing Legal Pilgrims’ Travel Through AI and Automation
To facilitate an efficient journey for registered pilgrims, Saudi authorities have introduced technological upgrades at Medina’s Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport.
The Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has overseen the installation of 20 AI-integrated e-gates, allowing for seamless entry processing. In tandem, 30 new passport verification devices and multiple fingerprint scanners have been deployed, reducing congestion and manual bottlenecks.
These upgrades are part of a broader initiative to use artificial intelligence in public service. Dedicated response teams have also been placed at the airport to handle any system downtime or errors, ensuring uninterrupted processing throughout peak pilgrimage periods.
This dual approach—enforcing permit compliance while streamlining legal entry—demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to maintaining both order and dignity during one of Islam’s most important annual events.