A historic development in serving the guests of God
Historically, the name of the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association has been associated with serving pilgrims to the Holy Mosque in Mecca for decades. This journey began with simple field efforts relying on manual guidance and direct assistance. As time passed and the number of pilgrims steadily increased, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia recognized the importance of developing mechanisms for volunteer work. Today, we are witnessing a radical transformation, with young scouts wearing green scarves not only as a symbol of giving, but also as a mark of high professionalism in crowd management and providing humanitarian support in the holiest of places, especially on the sacred plains of Arafat.
Artificial intelligence and digital maps in Hajj
In a move reflecting the comprehensive transformation underway in the system for serving pilgrims, the scouts' work during Hajj seasons is no longer limited to traditional fieldwork. It has entered a new phase of professional work supported by smart technologies and artificial intelligence. Participants in the public service camps utilize the latest digital applications and platforms for guidance and navigation to camp locations. Crowds are directed with exceptional precision and speed, leveraging databases, interactive digital maps, and real-time field data analysis technologies. This technological advancement ensures smooth movement and reduces instances of pilgrims getting lost, reflecting a bright image of technological development in the Kingdom.
Humanitarian efforts amid climate challenges
With the noticeable rise in temperatures during the Hajj season, the humanitarian role of the scouts became clearly evident. Scouts and their leaders were deployed throughout the various corners and pathways of Arafat to provide a range of urgent humanitarian services. These services included guiding lost pilgrims, pushing wheelchairs for the elderly and sick, and distributing umbrellas and bottles of cold water. In addition, they sprayed a refreshing mist of water to alleviate the effects of the sun's heat on the pilgrims, contributing to a sense of reassurance and supporting their comfort and tranquility.
Strategic partnership with the health sector
The impact of Saudi scouts extends to supporting the health sector. In the Ministry of Health facilities in Arafat, Saudi scouts have made a distinguished appearance as capable and supportive partners in humanitarian work. They have organized patient flow and assisted medical and ambulance teams in critical emergency departments. Their duties also include accompanying patients after they receive necessary treatment and transporting them safely to their accommodations and camps, thus relieving the burden on medical staff and allowing them to focus on critical cases.
Local and international impact in line with Vision 2030
This advanced scouting presence underscores that the integration of digital solutions and artificial intelligence in Hajj operations has become a comprehensive humanitarian model, harnessing data to serve humanity and ensure its safety. Locally, this effort aligns with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 in developing the third sector and promoting volunteer work, reinforcing the noble national message that serving pilgrims is an honor and a responsibility that the nation's people are proud to undertake. Regionally and internationally, the Kingdom presents the world with a unique model for managing the largest annual human gathering with high efficiency, further solidifying its leading position in harnessing technology to serve humanity and manage crowds safely and securely.
