Islamabad, 24 May 2025: In a bid to strengthen the security framework for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi authorities have begun deploying drone technology across Makkah to detect and intercept individuals attempting the pilgrimage without a valid Hajj Permit.
The move is part of a wider strategy to regulate the influx of pilgrims and ensure that only those with authorized documentation participate in the annual Islamic ritual.
State media in Saudi Arabia reported that daily operations involving aerial surveillance have already resulted in the arrest of several hundred unauthorized individuals.
Authorities revealed that four Indonesian nationals were apprehended for allegedly promoting a fraudulent Hajj Permit campaign.
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Following further investigation, law enforcement officers detained 14 more individuals at a private residence. None were found to possess legal documentation required for the pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, in Medina, the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) is working to enhance the experience of legitimate pilgrims through advanced technology.
At Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, 20 new e-gates have been installed to expedite immigration checks and reduce long queues.
SDAIA, in collaboration with airport and immigration authorities, has introduced artificial intelligence-powered systems aimed at automating the entry process. Over 30 modern passport scanning machines have also been deployed to support this effort.
These enhancements are part of a larger digital infrastructure initiative designed to manage the seasonal surge in pilgrim arrivals.
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To maintain consistent service, SDAIA has positioned technical support teams within the airport to address any equipment failures or system glitches promptly.
The immigration terminal has also seen the addition of four cutting-edge biometric fingerprint scanning units, bolstering both security and efficiency for incoming travellers holding a valid Hajj Permit.
This dual approach tightening surveillance in Makkah while improving services in Medina underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to safeguarding the sanctity of Hajj and ensuring a safe, well-regulated experience for all pilgrims.
