Hajj Talk

A collaborative space where experts from government, private, and non-profit sectors converge to share their cutting-edge experiences and insights in the Hajj industry. This platform also highlights significant projects and initiatives, both current and upcoming, all geared towards improving the Hajj sector and making the pilgrimage experience more meaningful for the pilgrims.

AGENDA

HAJJ TALK AGENDA



DAY 1   9 NOVEMBER 2025

National Anthem

Opening Ceremony

Welcoming Speech

Inaugural Session



DAY 2   10 NOVEMBER 2025
  04:00 PM - 04:20 PM
20 min

Specialized Logistics for Enhancing Health Preparedness and Serving Pilgrims
This session highlights the crucial role of Saudia Cargo in supporting the Hajj ecosystem through specialized logistics solutions for transporting vital shipments. It will present how the company ensures the safety and quality of pharmaceutical and food transportation by air, adhering to the highest international standards. The session will also showcase success stories and the company’s role in supporting community and humanitarian initiatives during Hajj seasons, while exploring new opportunities for collaboration with government entities and the private sector to enhance cargo services and improve the overall pilgrim experience.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  04:00 PM - 04:20 PM

Speaker

Mr. Hashim Al-Sharif
VP of Strategy & Business Development at Saudia Cargo
  04:20 PM - 04:40 PM
20 min

Healthcare for Pilgrims: From Response to Prevention
This session focuses on the healthcare efforts provided to pilgrims during the Hajj season - from rapid response to emergency and epidemic situations to proactive prevention through vaccination programs, infection control, and the preparation of healthcare facilities. It also highlights leading global practices in managing public health within large human gatherings.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  04:20 PM - 04:40 PM

Speaker

Dr. Majid Al-Thaqafy
Consultant of Preventive Medicine, Public Health, and Epidemiology at the Ministry of the National Guard
  04:40 PM - 05:00 PM
20 min

Modern Technologies in Cardiac Care During Hajj
This session highlights the latest technologies used in cardiac care during the Hajj season, including smart monitoring systems for vital signs, the use of artificial intelligence to predict early cardiac complications, and telemedicine applications that support medical teams in field locations. These technologies aim to enhance response speed, improve the quality of care, and reduce mortality rates among pilgrims with heart conditions.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  04:40 PM - 05:00 PM

Speaker

Dr. Adel Tash
CEO of King Abdullah Medical City, Makkah
  05:00 PM - 05:20 PM
20 min

How Does the Kingdom Manage Millions of Sacrifices with Full Religious and Operational Compliance?
The Adahi Project - one of the programs of the Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites - aims to facilitate the performance of Hady and Fidyah rituals for pilgrims of the Holy Mosque and to enable Muslims around the world to perform the rites of Udhiyah (sacrifice), Sadaqah (charity) remotely. The program ensures that the meat is then distributed to eligible beneficiaries inside and outside the Kingdom in a regulated and sustainable manner. This session will highlight how digitalization and smart supply chains have contributed to managing millions of animal sacrifices each year, ensuring full adherence to Islamic regulations, environmental preservation, and humane meat distribution that achieves social, economic, and organizational impact - making Adahi a pioneering model for transforming a sacred ritual into an integrated and intelligent operational system.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  05:00 PM - 05:20 PM

Speaker

Eng. Seraj Al-Felali
Deputy Supervisor General of (“Adahi”)
  05:20 PM - 05:40 PM
20 min

Safe Treatment of Slaughterhouse Waste in Holy Makkah
The first investment model for establishing and operating an engineered cell for the final disposal of slaughterhouse waste in Makkah. This project represents a pioneering step in sustainability and waste management through the design and operation of an engineered cell that meets the highest environmental standards for the safe disposal of slaughterhouse waste in Makkah. The model aims to ensure environmentally friendly and safe waste processing.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  05:20 PM - 05:40 PM

Speaker

Mr. Adel Al-Shaikh
General Manager of AgriServ - Makkah Region at the National Agricultural Services Company (AgriServ)
  06:00 PM - 06:20 PM
20 min

Transport and Logistics Projects: Enriching the Pilgrim Experience
This session highlights Saudi Arabia’s efforts in the transportation and logistics sector and its role in achieving the Vision 2030 objectives related to serving pilgrims. It presents the technologies, innovations, major projects, and services provided by the transportation ecosystem to support the movement of pilgrims to and within the holy sites - enhancing their mobility experience and enabling them to perform Hajj smoothly and safely.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  06:00 PM - 06:20 PM

Speaker

Mr. Fahad Al-Awad
Assistant Deputy Minister at the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, and Chairman of the Executive Committee for all Transport and Logistics System Operations
  06:20 PM - 06:40 PM
20 min

Jeddah Airports: The Pilgrims’ Gateway to Makkah
This session highlights the pivotal role of Jeddah Airports as the primary entry point for pilgrims - the main air gateway leading to Makkah. It will showcase the advancements in infrastructure, digital systems, and operational services that ensure a seamless transition from the moment pilgrims arrive in the Kingdom until their journey to the holy sites. The discussion will also explore how Jeddah’s airports have evolved into a global model for crowd management, combining operational efficiency with an exceptional hospitality experience.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  06:20 PM - 06:40 PM

Speaker

Mr. Salman Al-Bluwi
Director of Hajj and Umrah Operations, Jeddah Airports Company (JEDCO)
  06:40 PM - 07:00 PM
20 min

Land Transportation in Hajj: Digital Planning and Seamless Human Flow
This session discusses how land transportation is managed within the Hajj system and the challenges it faces in planning, organization, and operations. It also reviews how digital technologies, smart fleet management, and integrated operational plans can contribute to ensuring safe and smooth movement, based on a professional experience dedicated to serving pilgrims.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  06:40 PM - 07:00 PM

Speaker

Mr. Ahmed Al-Johani
CEO of Specialized Mobility Solutions at SAPTCO
  07:00 PM - 07:20 PM
20 min

Balady: Smart Maps for an Easier Hajj Journey
In this session, Yasser Al-Abidan, CEO of the Balady app, shares the success story of this innovative platform that empowers pilgrims to benefit from interactive maps and 3D navigation technologies. These tools help them move seamlessly across the holy sites, reduce congestion, and enhance the overall pilgrimage experience — contributing to the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 and its digital transformation objectives.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  07:00 PM - 07:20 PM

Speaker

Mr. Yasser Al-Obaidan
CEO of Balady
  07:40 PM - 08:00 PM
20 min

Saudia Hajj and Umrah: Redefining Hospitality in the Holy Sites
Over an area exceeding 1.7 million square meters and within a record timeframe of just 57 days, Saudia Hajj and Umrah executed the Model Camp Project - the first of its kind in redefining the concept of temporary accommodation in the holy sites. This session showcases this integrated engineering and operational achievement that combines efficiency, speed, and comfort, offering an innovative hospitality experience for the pilgrims.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  07:40 PM - 08:00 PM

Speaker

Mr. Osamah Al-Alshiekh
General Manager of Travel Package Development and Implementation at Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines)
  08:00 PM - 08:30 PM
30 min

Hajj: A School of Human Connection
Yasser Al-Huzaimi, a personal development trainer and human development expert, presents a deep humanistic interpretation of the Hajj experience, viewing it as the ultimate example of human connection. He discusses how the Hajj season offers a unique opportunity to understand human behavior and relationships, drawing lessons from this global gathering of millions from diverse cultures - a remarkable scene of harmony and cooperation.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  08:00 PM - 08:30 PM

Speaker

Dr. Yasser Al-Hozimey
Specialized in Self-Development and Relationship Improvement
DAY 3   11 NOVEMBER 2025
  04:00 PM - 04:20 PM
20 min

Protecting Pilgrim Data: Compliance with the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL)
This session discusses the requirements of the Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL) in Saudi Arabia and its impact on managing and processing pilgrims and Umrah visitors’ data. It also highlights the Ministry’s efforts, in collaboration with Deloitte, to ensure full compliance, safeguard sensitive data, and establish best practices for privacy and information security within the Hajj and Umrah ecosystem.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  04:00 PM - 04:20 PM


Speaker

Mr. Carlos Obeid
Senior Manager at Deloitte ME
  04:20 PM - 04:40 PM
20 min

Digital Connectivity in Serving Pilgrims
This session highlights the experience of Tygo, the first Saudi application to provide digital communication services through SIM and eSIM technology. It explores how this innovation enhances the pilgrims’ journey from the moment they arrive - enabling instant activation of SIMs, easy comparison of plans, and reliable, uninterrupted connectivity throughout their pilgrimage. The session also discusses the role of smart connectivity in improving digital service quality and strengthening the digital infrastructure readiness for the Hajj season.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  04:20 PM - 04:40 PM


Speaker

Mr. Abdullah Al-Shehri
CEO of Tygo
  04:40 PM - 05:00 PM
20 min

Wearable Technologies for Crowd Management and Violation Monitoring
This session highlights the latest smart solutions and technologies in large-scale crowd management, including the use of wearable devices, sensors, and real-time data analytics. It also discusses how these technologies can enhance visitor safety, improve movement flow, and enable more efficient violation detection - contributing to higher service quality and advancing Saudi Vision 2030 objectives for managing large gatherings and crowds.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  04:40 PM - 05:00 PM


Speaker

Dr. Atif Shamim
Chair Professor of the Electrical and Computer Engineering Program at KAUST
  05:00 PM - 05:20 PM
20 min

Digital Solutions in Crowd Management and Organization
Mohammed Al-Dabbagh, Founder of Tappifyd, shares technological innovations in crowd management — such as real-time tracking, visitor movement analytics, and pilgrim service monitoring. These technologies enable faster response during emergencies and enhance both operational efficiency and the human experience. He also highlights how digital solutions can strengthen safety measures, enrich pilgrims’ journeys, and ensure the seamless, efficient movement of millions.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  05:00 PM - 05:20 PM


Speaker

Mr. Mohammed Al-Dabbagh
Founder of Tappifyd
  05:20 PM - 05:40 PM
20 min

Baseer Platform: Artificial Intelligence for Crowd Management in Hajj
One of the latest technological initiatives launched in partnership between SDAIA and the Ministry of Interior, leveraging advanced national data and artificial intelligence algorithms to support government entities in managing crowds during Hajj.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  05:20 PM - 05:40 PM


Speaker

Eng. Alreem Al-Muhrij
Principal Artificial Intelligence Engineer at (SDAIA)
  06:00 PM - 06:20 PM
20 min

Partnerships that Enhance Pilgrim Services
This session discusses the importance of strengthening collaboration between the public and private sectors and enabling third-sector institutions to play an active role in serving pilgrims through sustainable initiatives that create social and economic impact. It also highlights innovative models of institutional integration during the Hajj season and explores ways to develop an economic and commercial ecosystem that supports sustainability and expands the non-profit sector’s contribution to providing high-quality services for pilgrims.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  06:00 PM - 06:20 PM


Speaker

Mr. Fadi Dahlawi
Chief Corporate Communication Officer of the Makkah Chamber of Commerce
  06:20 PM - 06:40 PM
20 min

How the Equation of Communication and Integration Succeeded in the Pilgrim Service Ecosystem through Hajj PMO
This session highlights the vital role of Saudi Vision 2030 in strengthening the concept of effective communication and integrated collaboration. It showcases Hajj PMO as a model of excellence, reviewing its communication tactics that contributed to the success of the most recent Hajj season, along with key lessons learned and insights that will guide future improvements and continued success.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  06:20 PM - 06:40 PM


Speaker

Eng. Mansour Budayri
Hajj PMO General Director at Pilgrim Experience Program (PEP)
  06:40 PM - 07:00 PM
20 min

The Non-Profit Sector: A Development Partner in the Pilgrim’s Journey
This session highlights the pivotal role of the non-profit sector in enriching the pilgrim experience and examines the shift from a seasonal model of charity linked to Hajj toward a sustainable developmental ecosystem that contributes to the national economy. Dr. Abdullah Bin AIi Aldurbah emphasizes the importance of capacity building, legislative modernization, and strengthened governance, along with the innovation of social financing tools and the expansion of partnerships with the public and private sectors - ensuring sustained impact and maximizing the social and economic returns of this vital sector.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  06:40 PM - 07:00 PM


Speaker

Dr. Abdullah Al-Durbah
Expert Consultant in the Non-Profit Sector
  07:00 PM - 07:20 PM
20 min

The Non-Profit Labor Observatory for Serving Pilgrims
The Non-Profit Labor Observatory for Serving Pilgrims has documented services with an estimated value exceeding 298 million SAR, delivered through the efforts of more than 300 non-profit organizations that helped pilgrims perform their rituals easily and smoothly. In this session, Eng. Abdul Karim Abdul Mohsen Al-Ghunaim will present the most creative ideas and innovative experiences implemented by the non-profit sector to support and enhance pilgrim services.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  07:00 PM - 07:20 PM


Speaker

Eng. Abdulkarim Al-Ghunaim
Capacity Building Director at the National Center for Non-Profit Sector
  07:40 PM - 08:00 PM
20 min

Empowering Hajj Businesses Through Fintech
This session will discuss the role of financial innovations in reducing operational burdens, increasing transparency and compliance, and enabling businesses to deliver more flexible and sustainable services to the pilgrims - enhancing the Hajj experience and aligning with the goals of digital transformation.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  07:40 PM - 08:00 PM


Speaker

Eng. Sultan Al-Hugail
Co-founder & CCO at Sanad Cash
  08:00 PM - 08:30 PM
30 min

Enabling Digital Payments for Pilgrims
The session explores the role of FinTech innovation in enhancing the efficiency of the Hajj ecosystem and achieving the digital transformation goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The speaker will highlight how digital payment solutions and financial technologies facilitate the experience of pilgrims, while empowering service providers.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  08:00 PM - 08:30 PM


Speakers

Mr. Ehab Dorra
Chief Consumer Banking & Payments Officer at BANQUE MISR
Mrs. Safaa El Tayeb El-Kogali
Division Director for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Middle East & North Africa, Afghanistan & Pakistan (MENAAP)
Mr. Abdallah OULBAKS
Senior Regional Manager - Ant International
Eng. Ammar Bakhsh
Director of Privatization & Private Sector Support at the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah
DAY 4   12 NOVEMBER 2025
  04:00 PM - 04:20 PM
20 min

A Meal in 30 Seconds: The Smart Hajj Kitchen
During the Hajj season of 1446 AH, Manaf Food Industries, the first food production factory in the Holy Capital, produced over 1.3 million meals, utilizing impressive operational capacities - including advanced production lines, 24/7 working teams, and a fully integrated logistics system designed to serve the world’s largest gathering. This session sheds light on how the national industry has been a behind-the-scenes cornerstone of Hajj, feeding millions and achieving a remarkable accomplishment worthy of global recognition.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  04:00 PM - 04:20 PM


Speakers

Mr. Ehsan Mandourah
CEO at Manaf Food Industries
Mrs. Dima Sagga
Marketing Executive at Manaf Food Industries
Mr. Adnan Mandourah
Chairman of the Board of Mashareq Holding Company
  04:20 PM - 04:40 PM
20 min

Urban Agriculture: Reducing Waste and Enhancing Food Safety During Hajj
This session focuses on how sustainable agricultural technologies can be utilized to produce food near consumption areas, helping to minimize logistical losses and ensure fresh, reliable supplies for millions of pilgrims. It also highlights the potential of these solutions to reduce waste and strengthen food safety - paving the way toward more sustainable food systems both during and beyond the Hajj season.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  04:20 PM - 04:40 PM


Speaker

Eng. Abdullah Sahab
Co-Founder & CEO at iRAMA for Sustainability and Food Safety Solutions
  04:40 PM - 05:00 PM
20 min

Entrepreneurship in Serving Pilgrims
This session explores how entrepreneurs and startups can offer innovative solutions that enhance the experience of Hajj and Umrah visitors through smart technologies and responsive products. It also highlights the role of development authorities in empowering entrepreneurship and creating a supportive environment that transforms the Hajj and Umrah seasons into a global innovation laboratory - uniting human service with sustainability.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  04:40 PM - 05:00 PM


Speaker

Mr. Haytham Dawood
Director, Economic and Social Development Sector, Madinah Region Development Authority
  05:00 PM - 05:20 PM
20 min

Strategy and Business Intelligence in Serving Pilgrims
This session highlights how strategy and business intelligence are applied within the Pilgrim Experience Program - one of the key initiatives of Saudi Vision 2030 - to elevate the experience of pilgrims. The speaker will discuss how strategic planning, data analysis, and integrated governance contribute to evidence-based decision-making, improved service quality, and easier access to the Two Holy Mosques, through coordination with over 70 government, private and non-profit entities. These efforts strengthen operational sustainability and reflect the Kingdom’s commitment to excellence in serving pilgrims.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  05:00 PM - 05:20 PM


Speaker

Eng. Hasan Bashammakh
VP of Strategy, Governance & Business Intelligence at Pilgrim Experience Program (PEP)
  05:20 PM - 05:40 PM
20 min

Saudi Post | SPL Services During Hajj: Integrated Logistics Solutions for Pilgrims
This session presents the main services of Saudi Post | SPL during the Hajj season, which include innovative initiatives such as the “Hajj Without Luggage” service, parcel and gift shipping, Haramain Train passenger services, Hady and Adahi coupons, and health solutions for transporting medicines and medical samples, in addition to the Haram encoding project and the official postal service for government documents. These services come as part of SPL’s commitment to providing integrated logistics solutions that facilitate the pilgrims’ journey and enable them to perform their rituals with comfort and peace of mind, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  05:20 PM - 05:40 PM


Speaker

Mr. Rabee Al-Khlel
General Supervisor for Regional Affairs & Hajj and Umrah Centre at Saudi Post | SPL
  06:00 PM - 06:20 PM
20 min

Makkah Hospitality: Between Challenge and Distinction
Mr. Aziz Awlya brings over 15 years of experience in the hospitality sector in Makkah, focusing on the challenges and opportunities of managing hotels in the Holy City during peak seasons. This session will explore how this complex experience can be transformed into a global model of hospitality - one built on flexibility, strategic planning, and service excellence to meet the needs of the pilgrims.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  06:00 PM - 06:20 PM


Speaker

Mr. Aziz Awlya
Tourism Expert Specialized in Hotel and Hospitality Management in Makkah
  06:20 PM - 06:40 PM
20 min

An Everlasting Memory: An Interactive Experience Enriching the Hajj Journey
This session highlights the “An Everlasting Memory” initiative - a unique on-site program designed to raise pilgrims’ health, technological, and cultural awareness within their residences in Makkah before performing the rituals. The initiative utilized virtual reality (VR) technologies to recreate the holy sites and familiarize pilgrims with the steps of Hajj through an interactive and immersive experience, developed in collaboration with Umm Al-Qura University. The initiative achieved significant educational and technological impact, embodying its core message: “We Serve with Excellence.”

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  06:20 PM - 06:40 PM


Speaker

Dr. Tahani Qudsi
Director of Planning, Development and Innovation Department at Al Rajhi Commercial Support Services Company
  06:40 PM - 07:00 PM
20 min

Smart Transformation in Building Management Through Integration with Civil Defense
This session discusses the recent transformation in building design and management at Ithraa Aldiyafa Holding through the integration of smart technologies aimed at improving operational efficiency and enhancing safety and comfort. It highlights the experience of connecting buildings to Civil Defense platforms for emergency monitoring and rapid response, as well as the implementation of smart accommodation systems that enable automated unit management and service control. The session also explores secure access mechanisms using smart cards and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies, emphasizing their role in creating an integrated ecosystem that simplifies operations and enhances quality of life within buildings.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  06:40 PM - 07:00 PM


Speakers

Dr. Ayman Al-Harbi
Consultant at the Institute of Research and Consulting Studies at Umm Al-Qura University
Dr. Nader Abutalib
CEO of Ithraa Al-Mashir Development Company
  07:00 PM - 07:20 PM
20 min

Virtual Reality and Hologram Technologies: An Educational Journey for Pilgrims
This session explores the role of virtual reality (VR) and hologram technologies in introducing pilgrims to the historical and cultural landmarks of Makkah from within their accommodation - through interactive experiences that enrich their spiritual and cultural journey. The session also offers visitors the opportunity to experience these technologies firsthand, gaining insight into the educational and immersive experiences that pilgrims enjoy.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  07:00 PM - 07:20 PM


Speaker

Dr. Rami Pasha
Assistant CEO at Daleel Alzowar (Visitors Guide)
  07:40 PM - 08:10 PM
30 min

Think for the Two Holy Mosques: An Inspirational Partnership Empowering Youth to Serve the Guests of Allah.
This session highlights the collaboration between the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques and the Misk Foundation in enhancing the Hajj and Umrah experience through innovation and youth empowerment. Speakers will discuss current challenges, innovative solutions, and future partnership opportunities to better serve the pilgrims.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  07:40 PM - 08:10 PM


Speakers

Dr. Ammar Attar
Director General of Guest Experience Improvement Department at the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques
Eng. Mohammed Al-Zaid
Director of Community Engagement at Misk Foundation
Mr. Majed Al-Jraywi
Public and Media Relations Manager at Misk Foundation
  08:10 PM - 08:30 PM
20 min

From Prediction to Insight: How Artificial Intelligence Drives Decision-Making in the Hajj Ecosystem
The session highlights how predictive and prescriptive AI transforms data from analysis into real-time decision-making, enabling smarter crowd management, resource distribution, and operational planning. It showcases how the Ministry’s data ecosystem empowers decision-makers to ensure a safer and more seamless pilgrimage experience.

Arabic
Hajj Talk Stage - Innovation Zone
  08:10 PM - 08:30 PM


Speaker

Dr.Ahmed Alzahrani
Director of Data Analytics and Business Intelligence Center at Ministry of Hajj and Umrah