Saudi Arabia has recently seen a record number of Umrah pilgrims, with 500,000 worshippers entering the Grand Mosque in a single day. This significant increase in visitors, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, has prompted authorities to adopt advanced technologies to manage the crowds effectively.
To ensure smooth crowd control, smart cameras and AI-powered sensors have been set up around the Grand Mosque. These systems track the movement of pilgrims and monitor areas where congestion may occur in real-time. This helps authorities identify and address any crowd-related issues immediately, ensuring a safer and more efficient experience for all worshippers.
One of the busiest areas, the Mataf (the area around the Kaaba), and the Mas’a (the area for the Sa’i ritual), are some of the spots that often face overcrowding. With the use of these smart technologies, authorities can distribute pilgrims more evenly across different areas of the mosque, preventing overcrowding and ensuring that everyone can perform their rituals comfortably.
In addition to technological advancements, security patrols remain active throughout the mosque. These patrols are not only focused on ensuring the safety of the pilgrims but also play an important role in assisting the elderly and helping reunite lost children with their families.
The authorities are committed to ensuring that all visitors have a smooth and peaceful experience while performing their religious duties.
As the number of pilgrims continues to rise, especially during Ramadan, these measures help maintain order and improve the overall experience for worshippers. By combining technology with a strong security presence, Saudi Arabia ensures that the holy sites remain accessible, safe, and welcoming for all who come to perform Umrah.
