AI-Powered Roya Platform Boosts Hajj Security in Saudi Arabia

[Mahmud]

Jeddah reports that the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology) has partnered with the Ministry of Interior's Public Security to develop a smart platform called Roya. The system uses artificial intelligence, remote sensing, and Geographic Information Systems to improve operations.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, the platform is designed to support security work in the holy sites during Hajj and Umrah. It helps officials respond faster and make better decisions in crowded and high-pressure situations.

Roya provides advanced tools such as satellite image analysis and geospatial mapping. These tools help track traffic movement and monitor crowd density, making it easier for security teams to manage important locations efficiently.

The system also studies heat patterns and land surface temperatures in Makkah and other holy sites. It detects unusual changes and produces detailed reports that assist field operations and improve safety planning.

KACST explained that the platform contains nearly 2,000 satellite images collected from different seasons, along with 126 aerial imaging missions. These cover Makkah, Madinah, the holy sites, and major surrounding roads.

The platform runs fully on automation, from data collection to real-time analysis and display. It is connected to the Public Security Command and Control Center, providing live data visualization to improve coordination in crowded areas during major pilgrimages.

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