Makkah Al-Mukarramah – stc Group, the enabler of digital transformation, has completed its preparations for the 1447 AH Hajj season by implementing a comprehensive operational plan aimed at enhancing network efficiency and expanding coverage in Makkah Al-Mukarramah and Madinah Al-Munawwarah. These efforts included infrastructure improvements and the adoption of a range of the latest technologies and smart solutions, ensuring a reliable and secure connectivity experience that serves the needs of pilgrims arriving from around the world.

stc's preparations included implementing 450 network expansions, bringing the number of external sites to over 1,100, in addition to deploying more than 3,000 Wi-Fi access points, thus increasing capacity and improving service quality. To enhance indoor coverage, the group implemented 36 internal network expansions, including the activation of 29 new sites, bringing the total number of indoor sites in Makkah and the Holy Sites to over 400. The group also deployed more than 8,900 antennas within buildings and vital locations to ensure reliable communication services for pilgrims during Hajj.

In order to keep pace with the expected growth in data traffic, stc has strengthened the logistical support levels for operational processes by deploying 90 maintenance centers in the holy sites, in addition to having more than 550 trained field personnel in the most vital locations, with the aim of enhancing the levels of response and rapid support in cases of malfunctions and emergencies and ensuring the continuity of service around the clock.

stc had successfully conducted a number of readiness tests for all operational sites in the Holy Sites, in accordance with an integrated data traffic management strategy that aligns with the best international practices. In addition, the group deployed advanced systems for managing and monitoring network performance, relying on autonomous solutions and employing cutting-edge technologies to manage loads and improve network efficiency during peak times.

As part of its efforts to enhance international connectivity, the group provides an International IP VPN service that connects local sites to their international counterparts via a high-speed private network, ensuring secure and reliable connectivity services that support the movement of pilgrims through international ports, and efficient and secure network operation at all sites around the world.
The group also strengthened the digital security system for the Hajj-related platforms and applications, activating its maximum response plan and increasing the number of specialized national personnel to ensure immediate monitoring. It also employed several advanced risk prediction technologies and secured the RAN (Range Network Access) sites. Furthermore, it ensured centralized connectivity for IoT technologies, video surveillance systems, and biometric identification gateways at pilgrim entry points.

These efforts reflect stc Group’s commitment to contributing to enabling pilgrims to communicate with their families and loved ones with ease and convenience, in line with the Kingdom’s efforts to provide an exceptional Hajj experience for the guests of God during their spiritual journey.

About " stc Group"
The stc Group is an enabler of digital transformation, offering a wide range of innovative digital solutions and playing a pivotal role in driving digital transformation. The Group boasts a comprehensive portfolio of advanced services encompassing telecommunications and information technology, digital infrastructure, cloud computing, cybersecurity, the Internet of Things (IoT), digital payments, digital media, and digital entertainment. The Group comprises 13 subsidiaries operating in Saudi Arabia, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, and Europe.

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