Saudi Arabia to Use Drones and AI During 2026 Hajj

Saudi Arabia to Use Drones and AI During 2026 Hajj
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Saudi Arabia has deployed drones, artificial intelligence and advanced surveillance systems for the 2026 Hajj season to monitor crowds, detect violations and prevent unauthorized access to the holy sites, according to reports citing Saudi newspaper Okaz.

The measures form part of an integrated security and organizational plan aimed at protecting millions of pilgrims during one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings. Drones are being used to monitor large areas quickly and provide field teams with immediate alerts about suspicious movements or attempted entry without permits.

The system also includes smart surveillance networks, high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging devices. Authorities are using facial-recognition tools to identify individuals and strengthen security measures around key pilgrimage routes and sacred locations.

Officials are also relying on AI-based crowd analysis to predict congestion before it forms and redirect pilgrims away from overcrowded routes. Saudi data authorities have separately highlighted AI platforms that analyze live and recorded video feeds and thermal camera imagery to improve crowd flow, emergency response and transport management during Hajj.