Saudi Arabia’s New ‘Ufuq’ Data System Set to Transform Hajj and Umrah Pilgrim Experience?

In a significant move to modernise the management of the annual Islamic pilgrimage, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially launched the "Ufuq" system, a sophisticated data platform designed to transform raw statistics from the Hajj and Umrah sector into actionable, knowledge-based tools. The initiative, unveiled by the Pilgrim Experience Program (PEP), represents a definitive step towards enabling stakeholders to access and utilise data through products that enhance knowledge and support evidence-based decision-making, moving beyond mere numbers to foster a more seamless and spiritual journey for millions.

Daily Dazzling Dawn understands the system was inaugurated by Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, the Minister of Hajj and Umrah and Chairman of the Pilgrim Experience Program Committee, at the program’s pavilion during the sixth Hajj and Umrah Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah, which concluded on Wednesday. The launch marks a pivotal moment in the Kingdom's efforts to align its service delivery with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at diversifying the economy and enhancing public service sectors.

At the heart of the Ufuq system lies a comprehensive digital ecosystem that aggregates vast amounts of information pertinent to the pilgrimage experience. According to details released by the PEP, the platform encompasses more than 100 annual reports specialised in the Hajj and Umrah sector, alongside over 15 interactive information panels. This infrastructure is designed to allow government agencies to view relevant data and indicators instantaneously, thereby streamlining the construction of knowledge and the support of critical administrative decisions.

The scheme is poised to benefit more than 55 government agencies, fostering an unprecedented level of integration and knowledge exchange between entities dedicated to serving pilgrims. By providing reliable sources of information, Ufuq aims to contribute significantly to the development of sector-related knowledge and improve the planning of services offered to the Guests of God. The platform also provides access to more than 15 high-value open datasets through the national open data platform, broadening access to information and enhancing its utility for researchers, planners, and private sector stakeholders.

Speaking at a session titled "Serving the Guests of God: An Integrated National System" during the conference, Dr. Al-Rabiah underscored the transformative impact the Pilgrim Experience Program, launched in 2019, has had on managing the pilgrim journey. He noted that the program has revolutionised the entire process, from facilitating access to the Two Holy Mosques to elevating the quality of services and enriching the religious and cultural experience.

Daily Dazzling Dawn learned that the numbers reflect this success. The Minister revealed that the number of Umrah pilgrims arriving from abroad surged from 8.4 million in 2022 to 18 million in 2025. Similarly, the number of visitors to the Al-Rawdah Sharif, the sacred area inside the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah, grew from 6 million to approximately 16 million during the same period. These statistics underscore the growing demand for high-quality infrastructure and services, making the launch of Ufuq all the more timely.

The launch of Ufuq coincided with the main stage of the Hajj Conference and Exhibition hosting a series of high-level panel discussions featuring officials, experts, and specialists. These sessions showcased the latest initiatives, projects, and innovative solutions aimed at upgrading services for pilgrims. The discussions addressed several critical themes, including the use of modern technologies, artificial intelligence, and digital transformation to improve service efficiency, as well as the advancement of transport, accommodation, and crowd management systems.

The Main Stage served as a key platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange, bringing together decision-makers from various sectors to discuss strategic issues and share expertise. This collaborative environment reflects the conference’s role in shaping development strategies to promote sustained improvement and innovation in the services provided to pilgrims, in line with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.

The Pilgrim Experience Program continues to seek ways to provide pilgrims with a rich and fulfilling experience. This includes making necessary arrangements in the Haramain—the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madinah—to actualise Islam’s universal message and prepare tourist and cultural destinations. The focus remains on delivering high-quality services before, during, and after the visit to the holy places.

Through the "Data Beyond Numbers" theme, Ufuq encapsulates this forward-thinking approach. By focusing on leveraging data to support planning and informed, evidence-based decision-making, Saudi Arabia is setting a new global standard for the management of large-scale religious gatherings. The system’s ability to provide foresight tools will enable authorities to anticipate challenges and optimise resources, ensuring that the spiritual journey of millions remains the central priority. As the Kingdom continues to welcome the world to its holy sites, platforms like Ufuq will be instrumental in ensuring that the experience is not only manageable but truly exceptional.