The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah is expanding its use of artificial intelligence and data analytics to improve services for pilgrims, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The ministry says the technology turns raw data into forecasts that support early planning and decision-making, while smart assistants guide pilgrims through the rites in real time.
The push forms part of the Kingdom's Pilgrim Experience Programme and the wider goals of Saudi Vision 2030. Officials describe the aim as a smarter, more proactive journey for guests of God, from the moment a pilgrim plans a trip to the completion of Tawaf and Sa'i.
Nusuk AI answers questions in more than 180 languages
A central part of the effort is Nusuk AI, an assistant that provides information and guidance on Hajj, Umrah and ziyarah, and answers pilgrims' questions. According to the ministry, the service supports more than 180 languages and allows voice interaction, lowering the barrier for pilgrims who do not read Arabic or English.
Uptake has been significant. The ministry reports that more than two million people have used Nusuk AI since its launch, including 393,000 in the past month alone. The service recently received the AI Ethics Badge from the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority, known as SDAIA, which the ministry presents as recognition of responsible and trustworthy use of the technology.
A digital Mutawwif that counts your rounds
The ministry has also introduced a Digital Mutawwif through the Nusuk app, described as a smart companion that accompanies a pilgrim during the rites. It uses spatial AI to understand the pilgrim's location, movement and journey context in real time.
The tool guides pilgrims to the most suitable routes and floors, counts the rounds of Tawaf and Sa'i automatically, and displays the appropriate supplications and guidance for each stage. According to the ministry, the Digital Mutawwif recorded more than two million uses in a single month, and more than 1.4 million people have completed their Tawaf and Sa'i with digital assistance.
Data used to predict crowds and movement
Beyond direct pilgrim services, the ministry says it is applying advanced analytics to study Hajj and Umrah trends, pilgrim behaviour and preferences, and patterns of supply and demand. Predictive analytics are used to anticipate arrival and departure times and length of stay, which supports earlier preparation.
On the operational side, the ministry says it uses advanced algorithms to manage pilgrim movement and grouping, analyse crowd flow, and predict peak times. The same systems help analyse bus movement and improve transport routes between the holy sites, which the ministry says raises efficiency during the season.
Practical tips for pilgrims
Pilgrims planning Umrah or Hajj can benefit from these tools with a few simple steps. Download the official Nusuk app before travelling and set the language to your own for the clearest guidance. Try Nusuk AI for questions about the rites, permits and services rather than relying on unofficial sources. During Tawaf and Sa'i, the Digital Mutawwif can help you keep count and find less crowded routes and floors, though pilgrims should always verify their intention and the correctness of each rite for themselves. As with any digital service, keep your phone charged and carry a backup plan, since connectivity around the holy sites can vary at peak times.