Key Takeaways
• Over 1,300 pilgrims died during last year’s Hajj, most from extreme heat.
• Saudi Arabia is now deploying AI, drones, and real-time data to prevent another disaster.
• 250,000+ personnel and 40 agencies are involved in this year’s safety response.
• AI is also being used to track and prevent unauthorized pilgrimages, which accounted for the majority of deaths.
Why did Saudi Arabia bring AI into the Hajj?
Because climate change has made one of the world’s holiest gatherings dangerously hot. Last year’s temperatures soared to 52°C (125°F), making heatstroke a deadly threat.
This year, Saudi Arabia has upgraded from crowd control to crisis prevention infrastructure powered by AI.
What exactly is the AI doing?
AI is working in tandem with drones, on-the-ground teams, and emergency services to monitor conditions in real-time.
• Drones capture live video, which AI systems analyze to spot heat and congestion hotspots.
• Algorithms assess crowd movement and environmental stress to prevent emergencies.
• Shaded areas have been expanded by 12 acres, and 400 cooling mist units are active across key zones.
This approach helps authorities predict and prevent, instead of reacting too late.
Why are unregistered pilgrims such a big deal?
Over 80% of last year’s deaths involved individuals without Hajj permits. These pilgrims lacked access to critical safety infrastructure, like cooling tents, food stations, and medical support.
This year, enforcement has gone digital.
• Biometric scanners and AI checkpoints track permitted pilgrims.
• Unauthorized individuals face fines, arrest, and a 10-year ban.
• Permit-linked services are now tightly controlled through identity tech.
What’s next—and why does it matter?
The 2025 Hajj, starting June 4, is shaping up as a global case study in how AI can manage high-stakes human gatherings under extreme climate conditions.
• A successful rollout could make Saudi Arabia a model for crowd-tech innovation.
• Failure would raise concerns about AI’s readiness in real-world emergencies.
• The stakes aren’t just religious—they’re humanitarian.
This isn’t a test run; this is the new normal. Saudi Arabia is fusing faith, technology, and climate response in a way the world has never seen before.
AI isn’t assisting from the sidelines.
It’s on the front lines saving lives, in real time.
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