With the help of digital technology, the waiting time for pilgrims at the Grand Mosque in Makkah has been significantly reduced. According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the waiting time has come down from about two hours three years ago to approximately nine minutes during the most recent Hajj season.
This was stated by Dr. Mohammed Al-Saqr, Deputy CEO of the Digital Transformation Department at the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque. He noted that the Smart Mobility Platform has automated transportation services and integrated electronic booking and payment systems, making the pilgrim journey more convenient and efficient.
These digital initiatives are part of a broader goal to transform the Grand Mosque into one of the world’s smartest pilgrimage centers by 2030. Officials said digital systems are helping speed up operations and improve overall service efficiency.
More than 38 million Iftar meals distributed
Digital transformation has also been extended to the Grand Mosque’s Iftar meal distribution system, which now distributes more than 3.8 crore (38 million) Iftar meal packages annually, with a transaction value close to 500 million Saudi riyals. Saudi authorities say the wider use of technology aims to provide pilgrims with faster and smoother services.
