Government

In a major technological leap to enhance safety and infrastructure during the Hajj season, the Saudi Roads General Authority (RGA) has deployed the world’s largest AI-powered road inspection fleet. This initiative aims to ensure smooth and secure travel for millions of pilgrims heading to the holy sites in and around Mecca.

Comprising 18 advanced vehicles, the fleet integrates five high-end technologies to monitor, assess, and manage road conditions in real time. These cutting-edge systems are designed to enhance road quality, reduce risks, and support rapid maintenance decisions across critical Hajj routes.

Key components of the fleet include:

• Seven surface damage scanning vehicles equipped with high-resolution cameras, laser sensors, GPS systems, and onboard data storage to detect cracks and wear with pinpoint accuracy.

• Four International Roughness Index (IRI) units that measure road smoothness and driving comfort using laser-based technology.

• Three pavement thickness testing units that deploy multi-frequency radar to assess structural integrity.

• Three deflection measurement units are designed to evaluate how roads respond to traffic loads through embedded sensor arrays.

• One skid resistance testing unit, which simulates wet road conditions to ensure adequate friction and prevent accidents during adverse weather.

Additionally, the fleet features a mobile digital imaging system for inspecting non-paved infrastructure, including road signs, guardrails, and safety barriers. This system helps identify potential hazards and enhance preventive maintenance planning.

This AI-driven initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives. The RGA’s long-term goals include ranking the Kingdom sixth globally in road quality and reducing traffic fatalities to below five per 100,000 inhabitants. The Kingdom already boasts the world’s highest intercity road connectivity, with a network spanning over 73,000 kilometers.

The deployment of this fleet underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to leveraging advanced technology to enhance public safety, particularly during high-impact periods like the Hajj pilgrimage.

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