Riyadh: The Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques Institute for Hajj and Umrah Research of Umm Al-Qura University has launched the fourth edition of Hajjathon, aimed at spurring creative solutions to improve the pilgrims' experience.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the initiative forms part of the university's efforts to promote innovation and harness emerging technologies to enhance the Hajj, Umrah, and visit services ecosystem. The Hajjathon seeks to attract innovators, researchers, developers, and entrepreneurs to develop creative, technology-based solutions that elevate the experience of pilgrims.

The fourth edition aims to develop innovative solutions that address operational challenges facing the Hajj and Umrah system and improve service quality by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and the Internet of Things. These efforts aim to support decision-making and boost the efficiency and sustainability of services.

The Hajjathon is structured around four main tracks: engineering and infrastructure, technology and AI, healthcare, and awareness and crowd management. The structure enables participants to develop practical and scalable solutions for services provided to pilgrims.

The university invited those interested to register and learn more about the event through its official website.