Hajj 2025 goes hi-tech: 6 innovations transforming the pilgrimage

In preparation for the Hajj season of 1446 AH, Saudi authorities have rolled out a series of innovative services and infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving safety, comfort, and convenience for millions of pilgrims expected to perform the annual pilgrimage.

Read-Hajj 2025 preparation: The 15 major steps Saudi has taken

From advanced cooling technologies at the Grand Mosque to AI-powered smart tents and streamlined logistics, Saudi is combining tradition with innovation to ensure a spiritually enriching and smooth experience for all.

World’s largest cooling system activated at Grand Mosque

To maintain a comfortable environment amid high summer temperatures, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has activated the world’s largest cooling system, boasting a total capacity of 155,000 refrigeration tons.

The system will serve the Grand Mosque (Masjid Al Haram), ensuring optimal conditions for pilgrims during the physically demanding rituals of Hajj, a Saudi Press Agency report said.

The cooling infrastructure is supported by two main stations: the Shamiya Station with a capacity of 120,000 tons, and the Ajyad Station with 35,000 tons. These stations regulate indoor temperatures to a pleasant range between 22°C and 24°C, aided by air purification systems that eliminate 95 per cent of airborne impurities.

Smart tents and IoT solutions enhance safety and service delivery

In a significant technological leap, stc Group has deployed Internet of Things (IoT) systems and Smart Tents to enhance safety, monitoring, and response times during Hajj. The Smart Tents are fitted with sensors and cameras that track environmental metrics such as temperature, humidity, and smoke, offering real-time insight into internal and external conditions.

These systems can detect emerging issues and automatically relay alerts to relevant authorities. With access to live data, authorities can respond rapidly to medical, security, or logistical needs, ensuring both safety and efficient crowd management.

‘Hajj Without Luggage’ service simplifies pilgrimage travel

To reduce the physical burden on pilgrims, Saudi Post (SPL) has introduced the “Hajj Without Luggage” service. This initiative allows for the seamless transfer of luggage from a pilgrim’s home or local SPL branch directly to their accommodation at the holy sites—or even to destinations outside Saudi Arabia.

The service enhances convenience by removing the need for pilgrims to carry their belongings between sites. After Hajj, luggage can be collected from a pilgrim’s residence and delivered to their registered National Address, with tracking available via the SPL app or website.

Haramain high-speed railway boosts transport efficiency

To meet the high demand for transportation during the pilgrimage season, Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) is operating hourly trips on the Haramain High Speed Railway between King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Makkah. These fast, electric trains reach speeds up to 300 km/h, enabling rapid and efficient transit for arriving pilgrims.

SAR has scheduled more than 4,700 trips for the Hajj period, marking one of the largest operations in the railway’s history and significantly reducing travel time and logistical strain.

Water cooling project in Arafat to serve 140,000 pilgrims per hour

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance has launched a large-scale water supply project at Namirah Mosque in Arafat, aimed at reducing heat stress and ensuring easy access to drinking water. The initiative includes the deployment of 70 cooling units, each capable of producing 1,000 liters of cool water per hour.

These units are integrated with a new water distribution and sewage network, ensuring hygienic and continuous operation. Collectively, they can serve up to 140,000 pilgrims per hour, making it one of the largest hydration efforts undertaken at a single Hajj site.

Interactive map helps pilgrims navigate Grand Mosque services

In another digital upgrade, the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque has introduced a multi-language interactive map designed to help pilgrims navigate the sprawling Grand Mosque complex.

The map helps locate key services such as Zamzam water stations, lost and found offices, medical facilities, cart distribution points, and centers for assisting lost individuals. It’s part of a wider push to streamline access to resources and simplify rituals for pilgrims of all backgrounds.