As millions prepare for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia is ramping up its security and technological capabilities — from aerial surveillance to AI-powered immigration systems — to ensure a safe, secure, and seamless experience for all legitimate pilgrims.
🛰️ Drones Deployed to Enforce Hajj Permit Regulations
In a crackdown on unauthorized Hajj participation, Saudi authorities have begun using drones across Makkah to detect and prevent the entry of individuals without valid Hajj permits.
Key Highlights:
- Hundreds of violators are reportedly being arrested daily.
- Among the latest detainees are four Indonesian nationals allegedly involved in a fake Hajj permit campaign.
- Authorities also arrested 14 others from their residence — none held valid documentation.
This initiative aligns with the Kingdom’s efforts to ensure orderly pilgrimage operations, especially as Hajj quotas and permits are strictly regulated to manage crowd control and safety.
✈️ AI Technology Powers Faster Immigration at Medina Airport
In a parallel move to enhance legitimate pilgrim services, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has introduced a suite of AI-powered technologies at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Medina.
Tech Enhancements Include:
- ✅ 20 E-Gates for automated, faster immigration clearance
- ✅ 30+ Smart Passport Readers for accurate and quick ID verification
- ✅ 4 Fingerprint Scanning Units for enhanced security checks
- ✅ On-site SDAIA tech support teams for real-time troubleshooting
These technologies aim to minimize wait times, boost security, and offer a smoother arrival process for pilgrims arriving from around the globe.
🔐 A Balanced Approach: Security Meets Innovation
Saudi Arabia’s Hajj management strategy in 2025 reflects a dual approach:
- Strict enforcement against unauthorized entry through surveillance and arrests
- Improved services for verified pilgrims using cutting-edge AI solutions
This comprehensive strategy reaffirms the Kingdom’s commitment to hosting a safe, organized, and spiritually fulfilling Hajj.
📅 Hajj 2025: What You Need to Know
- Official Hajj permits are mandatory — violators risk detention and deportation.
- AI-backed immigration services are active in Medina, and similar upgrades may extend to Jeddah and other Hajj entry points.
- Pilgrims are urged to verify travel documents through authorized Hajj operators only.
