Saudi Arabia to apply digital tech, smart cards to facilitate Hajj: Al-Rabiah

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfig Al-Rabiah

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Tawfig Al-Rabiah said that digital technologies will help organize this year's pilgrimage season perfectly, indicating that the Hajj smart card will be applied during the current year.

The card will contribute to easing the movement of pilgrims and speed up their arrival to the holy sites.

Speaking at a conference today, June 2, the minister added that work is ongoing on the "Nosok" platform, which enriches the digital experience. It is among the upcoming projects that will contribute to improve and upgrade services.

Al-Rabiah also pointed out that the digital medium is an essential part of developing the service related to Hajj and Umrah pilgrims.

Preparations are complete as the Kingdom wants to ensure easier Hajj, along with facilitating and developing procedures.

Saudi Arabia also is keen to prepare earlier in terms of accommodation, catering and transportation, and arrangements are in full swing, Al-Rabiah said.

The minister said there is a heavy volume of Hajj applications, noting that safety and security of pilgrims remains the priority.

The ministry aims to ensure the safety of pilgrims in light of COVID-19 and also ensure the provision of good services.

The ministry launched an electronic service to apply for Umrah from outside the Kingdom, which is currently issued within less than 24 hours, in addition to extending the Umrah visa to three months, he added.