Saudi Arabia’s new digital identity service will smoothen Hajj pilgrims

Thursday, May 16, 2024

Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior has launched a digital identity service for pilgrims arriving on Hajj visas this season. This initiative represents a significant step towards promoting digital transformation and harnessing technology to serve pilgrims, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

A Collaborative Effort

Developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority, the digital identity service allows pilgrims to verify their identity electronically. This can be done through the Absher and Tawakkalna platforms, which are widely used for various governmental services in the Kingdom.

Enhancing the Pilgrim Experience

The primary objective of this service is to facilitate the use of digital identity for pilgrims, thereby improving the quality of services provided and enriching their overall experience in Saudi Arabia. By leveraging digital identity, pilgrims can seamlessly access a range of services throughout their stay, reflecting the advancements in digital transformation in the Kingdom.

Special Passport Stamp for Mecca Route Initiative

In addition to the digital identity service, the Ministry of Interior’s General Directorate of Passports has introduced a special passport stamp for pilgrims benefiting from the Mecca Route Initiative. This stamp will be available at designated lounges across 11 airports in seven countries: Morocco, Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Turkiye, and Cote d’Ivoire. The Mecca Route Initiative aims to streamline the pilgrimage process, ensuring that pilgrims have a smooth and efficient journey from their home countries to Saudi Arabia.

Promoting Tourism and Innovation

These initiatives underscore Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing the pilgrimage experience through innovative solutions. By integrating digital identity services and special passport stamps, the Kingdom aims to provide a more convenient and modernized travel experience for pilgrims. This not only improves the logistics of the Hajj journey but also aligns with the broader vision of making Saudi Arabia a global leader in technological advancements and tourism services.

As Saudi Arabia continues to implement its Vision 2030 goals, the introduction of digital identity services and special passport stamps for pilgrims signifies a major step forward. These measures are set to transform the pilgrimage experience, making it more efficient, secure, and enjoyable for millions of pilgrims who visit the Kingdom each year. Through these efforts, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself at the forefront of digital innovation in tourism, enhancing its reputation as a leading destination for religious travel.

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