Baladi+ platform updates 11,800 locations in Mecca to facilitate the movement of pilgrims
Introduction: Digital Transformation in Serving the Guests of God
In a strategic move reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to harnessing the latest technologies to serve pilgrims, the "Baladi+" platform announced the implementation of a comprehensive package of digital and spatial upgrades in Makkah and the Holy Sites. These extensive preparations for the 1447 AH Hajj season included upgrading more than 11,800 landmarks and vital sites. This massive project aims to facilitate the movement of pilgrims and enhance crowd management efficiency during the season, representing a qualitative leap in managing the world's largest annual human gathering.
Historical context and the project's alignment with the Kingdom's Vision 2030
Historically, the Saudi leadership has placed great emphasis on developing the infrastructure of Mecca and the Holy Sites. With the launch of Saudi Vision 2030, specifically the “Guests of God Service Program,” the focus has shifted towards digitizing services and providing a seamless and convenient experience for pilgrims. Updating this vast number of sites through the “Baladi+” platform is not merely a technical procedure, but rather an extension of a long-standing legacy of care, now supported by artificial intelligence and big data tools to achieve the highest standards of quality and safety.
Strategic partnerships and accurate spatial updates
These pioneering projects were implemented in close collaboration with the Royal Commission for Makkah City and the Holy Sites. The joint efforts included auditing and updating the spatial data for key sites and landmarks within Makkah and the Holy Sites. This meticulous updating directly supports improved access and mobility experiences, enhances the efficiency of services provided to pilgrims, and reduces the incidence of getting lost or experiencing delays in reaching their destinations.
Advanced digital maps and frequency transport routes
In the transportation sector, Baladi+ has developed digital mapping services by monitoring and updating shuttle bus routes totaling over 990 kilometers. The platform goes further, providing real-time data on transportation schedules, enabling pilgrims to plan their journeys and reach their destinations easily and efficiently. The platform also launched an interactive 3D experience of the entrances and exits of the Grand Mosque, pedestrian walkways, and the Jamarat Bridge, contributing to easier navigation and enhancing the experience of accessing the holy sites before and during the Hajj rituals.
Promoting health and safety and managing crowds
To ensure the safety of pilgrims, the updates included reviewing and updating the locations of hospitals, health centers, Red Crescent stations, and public facilities. Pilgrim camps were also linked to the data of approved Hajj campaigns to facilitate access via the fastest available routes. Digital maps provide real-time updates on road conditions and traffic diversions, and are linked to the control rooms of partner agencies to support rapid response, anticipate congestion, and enhance the efficiency of traffic and crowd management in high-density areas.
Municipal services and field inspection
On the municipal services front, the platform facilitated the issuance of seasonal permits for temporary outlets, Hajj accommodation requests, and health certificates. Furthermore, field monitoring efforts were enhanced through the “Mumtali” and “Adasat Baladi” platforms, in partnership with the Holy Capital Municipality, contributing to increased compliance and improved service quality during the Hajj season.
Local and international impact and the future of smart cities
Yasser Al-Obaidan, CEO of Baladi+, affirmed that work is ongoing to provide accurate and real-time spatial data to enable pilgrims to access services and move around efficiently during the Hajj season, within an integrated system with partner entities. He added that these efforts are part of the objectives to develop smart cities and digitally transform municipal services by utilizing spatial data, modern technologies, and artificial intelligence. This development will have a positive impact locally by improving infrastructure, and regionally and internationally by presenting a leading and innovative Saudi model for crowd management, thus enhancing the experience of pilgrims coming from all corners of the earth.
