Al-Riyadh Newspaper, June 5, 2025: Hajj Pilgrimages, Global Economic and Political Issues, Technological Advancements

These articles from Al-Riyadh newspaper cover a range of topics on June 5, 2025. Several pieces focus on preparations and services for the Hajj pilgrimage, highlighting efforts to manage large crowds through technology and integrated systems, as well as ensuring the safety and well-being of pilgrims. Other articles address global economic and political issues, including the stability of the gold and oil markets, the impact of trade tensions, and legal proceedings related to war crimes. Finally, the sources touch upon technological advancements, specifically the increasing role of artificial intelligence and the potential for new energy sources.

Saudi Arabia’s Hajj Management: Services and Security

Hajj is a fundamental religious observance in Islam, holding immense religious symbolism and historical significance. It is considered a strategic priority and represents the core principles of equality and devotion before the Creator. This great religious duty involves millions of pilgrims from around the world gathering in the Holy Sites. For Hajj 2025, it was anticipated that over 2 million pilgrims from 183 countries would participate, marking a 12% increase from the 2024 season.

Saudi Arabia, under the leadership of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and the Crown Prince, regards the service of pilgrims as a significant responsibility and honor. This dedication has been a constant since the Kingdom’s establishment. It is viewed as a comprehensive national, human, and spiritual undertaking. The primary objective is to ensure a safe, convenient, and well-organized Hajj experience for all pilgrims.

To achieve this, the Kingdom has undertaken extensive infrastructure development and implemented various services:

• Significant projects include the development and shading of areas in Muzdalifah and Arafat, featuring structures and mist pillars to enhance the pilgrims’ experience. There are also initiatives to cool and shade pathways with mist fans to mitigate the effects of direct sunlight heat.
• Transportation services have been enhanced, with efforts to ensure seamless entry into Mina and the absence of unauthorized buses on pilgrim routes. The Mashaaer train operates as a shuttle service during the Hajj period. The Haramain High-Speed Railway runs frequently between King Abdulaziz Airport in Jeddah and Makkah, reducing travel time significantly. Medina buses provide shuttle services specifically for Arafat Day and Eid prayer, without disrupting the regular public transport schedule.
• Cleanliness and waste management are prioritized, with electric waste compactors and ground storage units provided. Modern technologies and a large workforce are utilized for cleaning operations in Makkah and the Holy Sites.
• Facilities at Miqats and associated mosques, such as Al-Sail Al-Kabeer, Wadi Muhrim, Yalamlam, Qarn Al-Manazil, and Al-Juhfa, as well as Al-Tan’eem and Al-Ja’ranah mosques, have been developed and expanded. This includes widening pathways, organizing entry and exit, and increasing prayer areas.

Sophisticated management systems and technology play a critical role in organizing Hajj:

• An integrated operational system relies on spatial readiness, real-time analysis, and continuous improvement to manage the Hajj ecosystem.
• The Command and Control Center in Mina functions as the central hub for security operations, enabling monitoring, crowd management, and quick decision-making. It is equipped with advanced surveillance and data analysis systems.
• Digital transformation efforts include using digital maps and rapid translation apps to assist lost pilgrims. The 911 unified security operations center utilizes automated systems to handle emergency calls and forward them to relevant authorities. Technology, including AI and drones, is employed for crowd management and transportation planning.
• The “Hajj without a Bag” initiative facilitates services for arriving pilgrims at Taif Airport.
• The “Makkah Route” initiative, which began in 2018, simplifies entry procedures for pilgrims from selected countries, demonstrating high satisfaction levels among beneficiaries.
• A new methodology, “The Hidden Pilgrim,” is being piloted to assess the quality of services provided by government entities from the perspective of a regular pilgrim.
• Real-time indicators and data analysis support decision-making and resource allocation.

Ensuring the safety and security of pilgrims is paramount:

• Strict security checkpoints are established at entrances to Makkah and surrounding areas, with comprehensive surveillance rings to enforce regulations.
• The campaign slogan, “The pilgrim is in our eyes, and whoever violates is in our grasp,” conveys the Kingdom’s welcoming approach alongside its firm stance against any breaches of security or regulations.
• Severe penalties, including imprisonment, significant fines, and deportation, are imposed on individuals caught transporting illegal pilgrims.
• The National Guard actively participates in securing the Hajj season.
• The necessity of obtaining Hajj permits is stressed to ensure orderly movement and prevent dangerous overcrowding. The Council of Senior Scholars supports this requirement, stating that performing Hajj without a permit is not permissible.
• Advanced technology like AI and drones are used by security forces for monitoring and management.

Comprehensive health services are provided to pilgrims:

• The Ministry of Health offers integrated health services across the Holy Sites.
• Mobile units and field hospitals are deployed in key locations to provide immediate care.
• Health services are aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
• The “Prevention Before Treatment” initiative addresses heat-related risks, using smart bracelets for vulnerable pilgrims and deploying mobile cooling units.
• A dedicated Hajj health application allows pilgrims to book appointments at clinics.

The human and social dimension of Hajj is also emphasized:

• Hajj is a powerful event that fosters international acquaintance and peaceful coexistence, bringing together people of diverse backgrounds.
• Saudis, across different age groups, actively participate as volunteers in Mina and the Holy Sites, assisting pilgrims with guidance, distribution of food and water, and other support.
• Volunteering during Hajj provides Saudis with valuable skills and strengthens their connection to the nation and the service of guests.
• Saudi women play a significant and active role in serving pilgrims across various sectors, including health, security, and volunteering, showcasing their professionalism and readiness.
• The “Adahi” project facilitates the ritual sacrifice and ensures the organized distribution of meat to eligible recipients domestically and internationally. This program, overseen by the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites, has undergone operational advancements and utilizes a digital monitoring system.
• Pilgrims hosted under special programs, such as those from Palestine, Iraq, and Indonesia, have expressed gratitude and praised the exceptional services, hospitality, and smooth procedures they experienced. Pilgrims who are families of martyrs and injured individuals from operations like “Decisive Storm” and “Restoring Hope” were also hosted by the Ministry of Defense.

Overall, the sources highlight that Hajj management in Saudi Arabia is a complex, multi-faceted operation that integrates advanced technology, robust security, comprehensive health services, and dedicated human efforts within a strategic framework aimed at continuously enhancing the pilgrim experience and ensuring the safety and comfort of all who undertake this significant journey.

Global Markets and Saudi Economy Update

Based on the sources, the discussion of Economic and Financial Markets covers several areas, including the Saudi stock market, global commodity markets like gold, oil, and gas, currency movements, broader global economic factors like trade tensions and central bank policies, and specific economic sectors in Saudi Arabia such as real estate, artificial intelligence, entertainment, and media.

Saudi Arabian Markets:

• The main Saudi stock market index closed higher, gaining 172.10 points to close at 11004.53. The value of traded shares reached 4.6 billion riyals. 183 million shares were traded. Shares of 191 companies increased in value, while 50 companies saw a decrease. Some companies with the largest increases included Acwa Power, Tabuk Cement, Burgerizzr, Al-Babtain, and Saudi Cement. Companies with the largest decreases included Saudi Research and Media Group, Jadwa REIT Saudi, Aldawaa, and Al Mo’ather REIT, with declines ranging between 6.33% and 7.03%.
• The Saudi Parallel Market index (Nomu) also closed higher, gaining 257.90 points to close at 27307.74. Traded values exceeded 27 million riyals, with over 3 million shares traded.
• Companies with the highest trading activity by quantity included Acwa Power, STC, Al-Rajhi, and Al Ahli. The most active companies by value were Acwa Power, Al-Rajhi, Al Ahli, Saudi Electricity Company, Saudi Industrial Investment Company, and Americana.
• Regarding the Riyadh real estate market, there is anticipation for the Royal Commission for Riyadh City’s announcement about a platform for submitting residential land applications, guided by the Crown Prince to address high land and rent prices and achieve market balance. This is part of a series of measures aiming for a stable housing market by controlling supply and demand, reducing discontinuations, and limiting speculation. Follow-up showed positive engagement and market correction. Some have questioned the effectiveness of these measures. The article emphasizes that real estate balance is a national, human, and developmental vision for building a suitable nation.

Global Commodity Markets:

• Gold: Spot gold prices remained stable at $3,351.49 per ounce, while US gold futures were stable at $3,375. Factors supporting gold include US job data, trade uncertainty between the US and China, geopolitical tensions, and central bank caution. Gold tends to perform well during periods of economic uncertainty. Escalating military action between Russia and Ukraine, and reports of stalled Iran nuclear talks, also kept markets focused on safe havens like gold. Gold’s volatile performance was mainly due to improved risk appetite following anticipated US-China talks. The market saw renewed demand after Ukraine’s strikes against Russia.
• Oil: Crude oil prices fell due to concerns about OPEC+ production increases and tensions over tariffs threatening global economic forecasts, although concerns about Canadian supply disruption limited the decline. Brent futures fell 17 cents to $65.46 per barrel, while WTI fell 19 cents to $63.22 per barrel. Prices had risen earlier due to Canadian wildfires and expectations of Iran rejecting a US proposal regarding the nuclear deal. Analysts noted that despite supply concerns, oil markets struggled to maintain gains, as OPEC+ increases limit upward movement. Analysts expect the current decline in the front end of the crude oil futures curve is a result of significant inventory drawdowns since the beginning of the year.
• OPEC+ production increases limit upward movement. Eight OPEC+ countries agreed on May 31 to accelerate voluntary oil production cuts, collectively increasing output by 411,000 barrels per day in July. OPEC indicated that stable global economic forecasts and sound market fundamentals, along with declining oil inventories, were reasons for this increase.
• India’s Minister of Petroleum expects global crude oil prices to range around $65 per barrel in the future, noting sufficient supply. Lower oil prices help India reduce its import bill and encourage refineries to diversify supply sources. India spends around $150 billion annually on oil imports, and a 20% price drop could save $30 billion. India has diversified its oil purchase sources from 27 countries previously to 39 recently, and started buying from Argentina, bringing the total to 40. India is intensifying talks with countries in South America to boost energy relations. Reforms in India’s domestic oil sector are expected to reduce reliance on imports in the future. India aims to exploit untapped oil reserves by opening new offshore areas for exploration and has increased its sedimentary basin exploration area from 6% to 10% in the last decade, targeting 15% soon.
• Natural Gas: India is the fourth largest importer of natural gas globally. The country aims to increase the share of gas in its energy mix to 15% by 2030. India is looking to increase purchases of US LNG and is considering proposals to cancel import taxes on it. Indian companies are in talks with US firms for additional LNG sources. Shell has taken a positive final investment decision on the Aphrodite gas project offshore Trinidad and Tobago, expected to start production in 2027. This project, along with the Dragon field, aims to supply gas to the Atlantic LNG facility in Trinidad.

Currencies and Other Financial Assets:

• The Dollar saw some strength due to speculation about US-China trade talks and confirmation from Federal Reserve officials that interest rates would remain unchanged in the near term. The Dollar index, which measures the US currency against six major currencies, stood at 99.31.
• The Euro remained stable against the Dollar at 1.1368.
• Among other precious metals, silver fell, platinum rose, and palladium fell in spot trading.
• In industrial metals, copper prices received some support from hopes of easing economic pressure on China. Futures for copper rose on the London Metal Exchange and in the United States.

Broader Global Economic Context:

• Global stock markets saw Asian stocks rise, driven by technology shares, while the Dollar fell. Investor focus was on the pace of trade negotiations and uncertainty about progress. European stock futures indicated a higher opening ahead of the ECB meeting.
• South Korean stocks and currency rose following the election of the liberal candidate, boosting hopes for economic stimulus and market reforms. The KOSPI index rose over 2% to its highest level since August 2024.
• US job opportunities increased in April, but layoffs also rose, suggesting a slowdown in the labor market amidst gloomy economic forecasts due to tariffs.
• The OECD warned of a sharper-than-expected global economic slowdown, attributing it mainly to the repercussions of the US trade policy. The OECD forecast the global economy to slow from 3.3% last year to 2.9% in 2025 and 2026.
• US-China trade tensions remain a key factor. The US is raising tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from 25% to 50% effective Wednesday. The US President called reaching an agreement with China’s Xi Jinping “very difficult”. The US had accused China of violating a trade agreement, which Beijing denied.
• Central banks use interest rates to control inflation. Lower rates can stimulate economic growth and demand. A Federal Reserve official noted that inflation from US tariffs on imports might be quick, but the economic slowdown caused by tariffs will take longer.
• The US public debt reached approximately $36.2 trillion by June 2025, equaling about 124% of US GDP. US bonds are the main borrowing tool for the US government. The US faces risks if Congress refuses to raise the debt ceiling to meet federal obligations. A Moody’s report predicted US interest costs would rise to $1.8 trillion by 2035. The agency had downgraded the US credit rating from Aaa to Aa1 in May 2025 due to concerns about debt growth, rising cost of debt, and chronic fiscal deficit.

Economic Sectors in Saudi Arabia:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Saudi Arabia leads globally in government AI strategy standards according to the Global AI Index for 2024. A Saudi AI company, Humainy, was founded in May by the Crown Prince. A strategic partnership was signed between Humainy and Nvidia (an American company considered a cornerstone of AI technology). The deal focuses on acquiring advanced GPU processors. The Saudi AI sector is expected to reach around $140 billion in the next five years.
• Entertainment and Leisure: The Saudi Entertainment and Amusement (SEA) Expo is highlighted as a strategic platform for the sector. The seventh edition attracts decision-makers seeking growth opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing market. The event facilitates direct deals, partnerships, and knowledge exchange. Discussions at the SEA Summit included interactive technology, AI, e-sports, and designing sustainable entertainment destinations. Partnerships were signed during the event, reflecting the sector’s adoption of specialized solutions. The expo supports Vision 2030 goals to build a competitive entertainment sector, diversify the economy, and create jobs.
• Media and Advertising: The media sector in Saudi Arabia is undergoing strategic transformations, supporting Vision 2030 by enhancing quality of life and presenting the Kingdom’s vision. The media landscape, including television, radio, and digital platforms, has seen growth and attracted investment. Regulatory frameworks are in place to organize the media market and protect consumers. The sector’s economic contribution is noted, providing opportunities for local and international investors. The return of cinema and awards has boosted production companies.

The sources paint a complex picture of interconnected economic and financial markets, influenced by global trade dynamics, geopolitical events, and national policies, alongside specific developments within the Saudi Arabian economy and its strategic Vision 2030 initiatives.

Global Dynamics and Saudi Engagements

Based on the sources provided and our conversation history, the topic of International Relations is discussed through several lenses, including global conflicts, diplomatic engagements, international economic dynamics, and multilateral cooperation efforts.

Global Conflicts and Tensions:

• The sources detail ongoing Israeli aggressions in the Gaza Strip, including intense shelling and raids. This has resulted in rising casualties and a severe humanitarian situation, with hospitals facing critical conditions. International pressure is mounting for an immediate ceasefire. There is a notable lack of international protection for civilians and aid facilities in Gaza. The sources mention specific developments like the Canadian police opening an investigation into potential war crimes in Gaza involving Israeli soldiers who hold Canadian citizenship, and a reported decline in public support for Israel in Europe. Aid distribution in Gaza has faced challenges, with reports of centers closing, an organization supported by the US and Israel halting distribution, and the Israeli army stating centers would be closed due to “renewal and organization” work. Concerns have been raised about the transparency and neutrality of aid organizations receiving support from the US and Israel. The sources also report on Israeli forces conducting raids and demolishing infrastructure in Palestinian territories like Tubas.
• The war in Ukraine is highlighted with concerns about escalating risks. A US official noted that the situation is “heating up in a big way” after Ukrainian forces used cruise missiles to target Russian bombers. There are warnings about the potential for a nuclear accident in Ukraine due to continued aerial attacks, a concern reiterated by the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). IAEA experts are present at nuclear power plants in Ukraine. The UK has pledged to provide Ukraine with 100,000 drones by the end of the year as part of its military support. A Russian security official was reported to have arrived in North Korea to meet with its leader.

International Diplomacy and Bilateral Relations:

• The Arab League has called for an end to the war in Gaza and the implementation of UN Security Council and General Assembly decisions. They demand the end of the Israeli occupation and urge global recognition of a Palestinian state based on international legitimacy resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.
• Specific bilateral engagements mentioned include congratulations from the Saudi King and Crown Prince to the newly elected President of Korea, highlighting the distinguished relations between the two countries.
• Saudi Arabia’s consistent position in supporting the Palestinian cause, politically, economically, and religiously, is acknowledged by a Palestinian official who expressed gratitude for the Kingdom’s hospitality towards Palestinian pilgrims.
• The sources mention a book discussing Algeria’s presence in Saudi literature, noting Saudi Arabia’s historical support for the Algerian cause since its revolution.
• Saudi Arabia hosted families of martyrs and injured individuals from Yemeni forces participating in the “Operation Decisive Storm” and “Operation Restore Hope” campaigns. This initiative is presented as reflecting Saudi Arabia’s status as a beacon for the Muslim world and its effort to strengthen Islamic ties.

International Economic Dynamics and Trade:

• Trade tensions, particularly between the US and China, are a significant factor influencing markets. The US President has raised tariffs on steel and aluminum imports and described reaching an agreement with China as “very difficult”. The OECD has warned that the repercussions of US trade policy are a main cause of a sharper-than-expected global economic slowdown. While some trade talks were anticipated, uncertainty about progress remains. Other countries like the UK (initially) and Mexico have reacted to the US tariff policies.
• Global oil and gas markets are discussed, including the impact of OPEC+ production decisions on prices. India’s role as a major oil and gas importer is detailed, along with its efforts to diversify supply sources from numerous countries. India is also exploring boosting energy relations with South American countries and is interested in increasing purchases of US LNG. US sanctions have impacted Russian oil sales.
• Challenges within the international airline industry related to meeting emission targets and the reliance on sustainable aviation fuel are mentioned.

International Cooperation and Saudi Arabia’s Role:

• Saudi Arabia plays a significant role in facilitating international gatherings, particularly the Hajj pilgrimage, which involves pilgrims from numerous countries. Initiatives like the “Makkah Route” program, involving cooperation with seven countries, aim to streamline the entry and experience of pilgrims. The Kingdom has also implemented advanced technological systems for crowd and safety management during Hajj, including collaborations with experts from countries like Singapore and Japan for the “Digital Hajj” conference.
• Beyond Hajj, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a global center for developing solutions to major human challenges. This includes signing a cooperation agreement with the WHO to establish a global center for disaster management training. A WHO report praised Saudi Arabia’s model of combining technological innovation and human compassion in managing large gatherings.
• In the field of Artificial Intelligence, a strategic partnership has been formed between the newly founded Saudi AI company, Humainy, and the American company, Nvidia, focusing on acquiring advanced processors. This is highlighted as a significant step in international collaboration in AI.

The sources collectively illustrate that international relations are currently shaped by ongoing conflicts, significant trade tensions, dynamic energy markets, and various instances of bilateral and multilateral cooperation, with Saudi Arabia actively engaging on multiple fronts, including regional conflicts, economic partnerships, and global initiatives related to humanitarian efforts and technology.

Global Energy Markets and Supply Dynamics

Based on the information from the sources, the discussion around Oil and Energy covers several key areas, including global market dynamics, geopolitical influences, energy security and diversification efforts, developments in specific energy projects, and initiatives towards sustainable energy and addressing risks.

Global Oil Market and Prices:

• Global crude oil prices are expected to be around $65 per barrel in the future perspective, according to India’s Petroleum Minister. This is a decrease compared to March ($73) and April ($68).
• Several factors are influencing oil prices. There are voluntary production cuts by eight OPEC+ countries. However, these same countries agreed to increase their crude oil production by 411,000 barrels per day in July. This is the third consecutive monthly increase in quotas.
• The sources indicate that global production of oil and liquids is expected to grow much faster than oil demand.
• Stable global economic forecasts, lower oil inventories, and sound market fundamentals are cited as reasons for the quota increases.
• Sustainable production increases are anticipated to negatively affect oil prices, especially after the summer.
• In the short term, oil prices saw a decrease influenced by concerns over OPEC+ production increases and trade tensions. This followed gains the previous week, which were driven by concerns over Canadian supply disruptions and stalled Iran nuclear talks.
• Analysts note that the market is finding it difficult to extend gains despite supply concerns, due to the OPEC+ increases. The forward price curve for crude oil shows a premium for prompt delivery over later months (contango), suggesting that the market anticipates future stagnation due to planned supply increases and a broader slowdown in the global economy.

Geopolitical Influences and Supply Concerns:

• Trade tensions, particularly between the US and China, are contributing to uncertainty and impacting economic outlooks, which in turn affects energy markets.
• The war in Ukraine continues to pose risks related to nuclear safety due to continued aerial attacks. The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has warned about the danger of a nuclear accident in Ukraine. IAEA experts are present at nuclear power plants in Ukraine.
• US sanctions on Moscow have impacted Russian oil sales, leading India to become the largest buyer of seaborne Russian oil offered at a discount. An Indian oil company anticipates a likely decrease in Russian oil imports due to recent US sanctions. The sanctions are reported to have caused “colossal losses” and legal issues globally. Russia is the world’s second-largest crude producer after the United States.
• Supply disruptions due to Canadian wildfires have provided some support to oil prices by reducing output. Estimates suggest the fires are affecting around 350,000 barrels per day or about 7% of Canada’s total crude production. Some analysts believe the reduction in Canadian supply could offset more than half of the planned OPEC+ increases next month.
• Geopolitical factors like the Ukraine war and the stalled Iran nuclear talks add a risk premium to prices, although their immediate impact seems limited.

India’s Energy Security and Diversification:

• India is a major importer of oil and gas, spending around $150 billion annually on oil imports. A 20% drop in oil prices could save India $30 billion.
• India has been actively diversifying its oil supply sources, buying from around 40 countries. It has recently started purchasing crude oil from Argentina. India is looking to boost energy relations with countries in South America.
• The country encourages domestic exploration and production to reduce reliance on imports. India has increased its exploration area in sedimentary basins and has seen some success in recent exploration operations.
• In the natural gas sector, India is the fourth-largest importer of LNG globally. It imported 26.58 million metric tons last year. The United States is the second-largest supplier of LNG to India.
• India is considering removing tariffs on US LNG imports to boost purchases and reduce its trade surplus with the US. Indian companies are also negotiating with US firms for additional LNG supplies. India aims to increase the share of gas in its energy mix from the current 6.2% to 15% by 2030.

Other Energy Developments and Projects:

• In Trinidad and Tobago, Shell has made a final investment decision on the Aphrodite gas project. Production is expected to start in 2027 and reach a peak of 18,400 barrels of oil equivalent per day. This gas will be used by the Atlantic LNG plant in Trinidad, where Shell holds a 45% stake and which is currently facing gas shortages. The project is expected to expand Shell’s integrated gas business and leverage existing assets in a region known for abundant gas.
• The international airline industry faces significant challenges in meeting emissions targets due to the low production and high cost of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Airlines aim for net-zero emissions by 2050, but SAF production is only expected to reach 2 million tons in 2025, representing just 0.7% of their fuel consumption. Airlines are calling for greater action from energy companies and partners to increase SAF volumes. Long-term purchase agreements are seen as necessary.

Sustainable Energy Initiatives:

• As part of the “Green Hajj” initiative, Saudi Arabia installed 50 megawatts of solar power units in Mina and Arafat, which are projected to provide 40% of the electricity needs in the holy sites. This initiative also included distributing reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.

Saudi Arabia’s AI Strategy and Hajj Management

Based on the information from the sources, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is discussed primarily in the context of Saudi Arabia’s technological advancements, economic development, and its application in managing large-scale events like Hajj. The sources also provide a brief historical overview of the field.

Here’s a breakdown of the discussion on AI:

1. Saudi Arabia’s Strategic Focus on AI:

• Saudi Arabia is noted for its significant progress in AI, having topped the global AI index in 2024.
• This strategic focus is highlighted by the establishment of a Saudi AI company named “Humania” by the Crown Prince during his visit to US President Donald Trump.
• A strategic partnership was signed between Humania and the US company Nvidia. Nvidia is referred to as an “AI giant” and holds a significant share of the global AI processor market, estimated at 85%.
• The partnership specifically involves access to advanced GPUs, including the GH300 processors, making Humania the first non-US company to acquire them. Other GPUs mentioned in this context are the H100 and A100.
• The sources express hope that Humania will benefit from Nvidia’s pioneering experience to help localize the chip industry, train Saudi talent, and potentially involve the Ministries of Education and Human Resources.
• The forecast for the value of the Saudi AI sector is estimated to reach around $140 billion in the next five years.

1. Application of AI in Hajj Management:

• AI techniques are being practically applied to enhance the management of Hajj.
• In the Command and Control center in Mina, AI techniques are being used for the first time this Hajj season as part of the latest technologies for real-time monitoring and managing crowd density and light transport.
• The successful Hajj season of 2025, which saw over 2 million pilgrims, is described as a result of a cumulative strategy utilizing “smart technologies”, which include AI techniques, thermal cameras, drones, and data analysis algorithms used to determine pilgrim paths with 98% accuracy.
• The application of Saudi AI in crowd management was a specific topic of study at the “Digital Hajj” conference, attended by experts from Singapore and Japan.

1. Historical Context of AI:

• The sources briefly trace the origins of AI, noting that the fundamental question of whether machines can think was posed by the mathematician Alan Turing in the mid-1950s.
• The term “Artificial Intelligence” was coined in 1956.
• Early AI programs developed include Logic Theorist and ELIZA.
• Significant developments over the years included the creation of neural networks and algorithms like backpropagation.
• Milestones such as Deep Blue defeating a world chess champion in 1997 are mentioned, marking AI’s entry into professional competitive arenas.
• AI has since become integrated into daily life, found in devices like smart vacuum cleaners, cooking appliances, self-driving cars, and phones.
• The field has progressed to generative AI, with successful models like GPT emerging around 2022.
• The need for ethical guidelines and “red lines” for generative AI is highlighted due to potential misuse and risks like academic dishonesty.

1. AI in Other Contexts:

• Artificial Intelligence was listed as one of the key topics discussed at the SEA Expo 2025, an exhibition focused on the entertainment and leisure sector in Saudi Arabia.

Overall, the sources portray AI as a strategically important and rapidly developing field, particularly for Saudi Arabia, where it is being leveraged for economic growth and the technological enhancement of services, especially in managing large gatherings like the Hajj.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

Affiliate Disclosure: This blog may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. This comes at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I believe will add value to my readers. Your support helps keep this blog running and allows me to continue providing you with quality content. Thank you for your support!