Saudi Arabia offers free high-speed internet to all pilgrims in tech-powered Hajj

Dubai: Saudi Arabia is offering free, high-speed internet access to every pilgrim performing Hajj this year, transforming the spiritual journey into one of the most digitally connected events on earth.

The Kingdom has deployed over 10,500 WiFi access points across Mecca, Medina, and the holy sites, eliminating the need for visitors to search for connectivity in the midst of the world’s largest religious gathering.

According to Saad Al Shanbari, spokesperson for the Hajj Communications and Technology System, the initiative is aimed at enriching pilgrims’ spiritual and logistical experience through seamless connectivity. “There’s no need to search for WiFi,” he said. “Internet access is now available for all pilgrims, everywhere.”

In addition to the WiFi rollout, the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) has implemented 100 per cent 4G and 5G network coverage across Mecca, Medina, and the holy sites of Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.

The infrastructure supports high data volumes while ensuring reliable connectivity for both pilgrims and operations personnel.

The commission also launched an AI-driven crowd management system in partnership with Aramco Digital, using advanced surveillance cameras and specialised communication networks to monitor flow and safety in real time.

“This year, we’ve deployed smart surveillance systems in partnership with Aramco Digital to manage crowd flows through AI-based monitoring and secure communications networks,” Al Shanbari added, noting that over 4,000 telecom personnel have been mobilized to support pilgrims during the Hajj season.

 -- Huda Ata is an independent writer based in the UAE