3.5 million Nusuk card readings: A digital achievement during the Hajj season
Continuous digital development in serving the pilgrims
In a move reflecting the rapid technological advancements in the Hajj and Umrah sector in Saudi Arabia, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah a significant digital milestone: over 3.5 million readings of the Nusuk card. These readings have been recorded since the beginning of Dhu al-Qi'dah and continue to the present, across various verification points throughout Makkah and the Holy Sites. This achievement is part of a comprehensive digital system primarily aimed at streamlining pilgrim movement and facilitating their easy access to services during the Hajj season.
General context and digital transformation in Vision 2030
Historically, managing the millions of pilgrims during Hajj relied on paper-based and manual procedures, posing a significant challenge to organizers. However, with the launch of Saudi Vision 2030, the Hajj and Umrah system has undergone a radical transformation towards digitalization. The “Nusk” platform and its smart card represent the culmination of these ongoing efforts. Designed to serve as a comprehensive identity for pilgrims, it contains all their personal and health data, as well as information about their accommodation and transportation, marking a qualitative leap in the history of crowd management globally.
The importance of the Nusk card and its local and international impact
Locally, this technology helps alleviate the burden on security, health, and regulatory authorities, as the card, in both its paper and digital versions, provides immediate access to data and services through electronic channels. This expansion of digital solutions supports rapid response to emergencies and enhances service delivery efficiency at all stages of the pilgrim's journey. Regionally and internationally, this meticulous organization reflects the Kingdom's leadership in managing massive gatherings and sends a reassuring message to pilgrims and their families worldwide that their spiritual journey is surrounded by the highest levels of care and organization.
Field impact and smooth flow of movement
On the operational side, the “Nusk” card plays a pivotal and crucial role in organizing the movement of pilgrims between different sites and services. By enabling field teams to accurately identify pilgrims' data, the card significantly improves the flow of movement and greatly reduces the instances of pilgrims getting lost, which were common in the past. Furthermore, the card contributes to the precise organization of entry into the camps in the holy sites and the use of designated transportation, thus enhancing integration and coordination among all relevant governmental and private entities serving the pilgrims.
