Innovative Solutions Transform the Future of Hajj and Umrah Experience

Jeddah – Young Saudi innovators and global entrepreneurs are bringing creative, technology-driven ideas to enhance the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages.

At the Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah, new innovations are being showcased to make pilgrimage experiences safer, smoother, and more accessible for all.

One standout concept is a cable car system proposed by Anhar Hamid Al-Luhiani, a student from King Abdulaziz University.
Her idea aims to assist elderly and differently-abled pilgrims in reaching the Jamarat (stoning site) efficiently and comfortably.

The cable car would provide safe, sustainable, and smart transport between Muzdalifah and Mina, reducing travel time dramatically.
While walking may take 30 minutes and buses 15, the cable car journey would take only around four minutes, offering a modern and comfortable alternative.

Al-Luhiani’s innovation was inspired by her mother’s challenges during Hajj, motivating her to create a safer and faster way for vulnerable pilgrims to perform their rituals. Her project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision for smarter, sustainable, and inclusive Hajj services.

The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is supporting similar technological developments that enhance organization and reduce congestion.
These innovations are part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to modernize pilgrimage management with advanced solutions.

Among the standout technologies is Hadi, an AI-powered mobile application introduced by Saudi entrepreneur Abdulaziz Al Shawair.
The app provides step-by-step guidance for pilgrims, from arrival to departure, helping them navigate, plan, and perform rituals efficiently.

Through Hadi, pilgrims receive real-time updates on transportation, crowd density, and optimal times for performing rituals, ensuring smoother movement. The application also offers support in case of emergencies or confusion, making it a valuable digital companion for pilgrims.

Additionally, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, in collaboration with Takween, a startup from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, has developed another smart app.

This system helps track the number of visitors at crowded holy sites in real-time, allowing authorities to maintain safety and manage capacity effectively.

Technology experts like Essam Ewis from Tamkeen highlight how digital tracking promotes better organization and safety during pilgrimage seasons. He stated that the new system helps estimate crowd sizes and maintain smooth pilgrim movement across key sites.

The event also featured international innovators contributing to Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation goals for Hajj.
From Indonesia, Garibaldy Mukti introduced the Pilgrim Pal app, a comprehensive tool for managing accommodation, transport, and communication for Hajj and Umrah travelers.

This app simplifies coordination between travel agencies and pilgrims, offering translation, navigation, and emergency assistance features.
It has already been successfully implemented by several Indonesian agencies, proving its global potential and reliability.

Another inspiring product presented was My Wudhu Companion, developed by Mohammed Akoojee and Sumayya Suliman.
It is a portable ablution bottle designed to make performing wudhu easier for pilgrims in crowded or limited-space environments.

Their innovation promotes water conservation while supporting spiritual practices, aligning with environmental sustainability and Islamic values.
The product showcases how small ideas can create significant positive impacts for millions of worshippers.

The exhibition’s Innovation Zone and Hackathon Zone serve as creative spaces for entrepreneurs and developers to design solutions for future pilgrim services. These initiatives reflect Saudi Arabia’s vision to lead globally in technological excellence and hospitality in Hajj and Umrah management.

Through innovation, collaboration, and vision, the Kingdom is paving the way for a safer, more efficient, and spiritually enriching pilgrimage experience. The future of Hajj is being shaped today — by creativity, compassion, and cutting-edge Saudi innovation.