RIYADH — Thales (EPA: HO), a leading French multinational specializing in aerospace, defense, transportation, and security solutions, has announced a landmark partnership with The Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) to bolster security measures at Al Ula’s heritage sites and historical landmarks, according to a press release published on EuropaWire .

The strategic agreement, unveiled during the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh on October 25, 2033, outlines Thales’s commitment to deploying a state-of-the-art integrated security system. This system, powered by an AI-enabled Smart Digital Platform and mission-critical communications, aims to fortify security across several significant sites within the AlUla region.

Thales’s collaboration with RCU underscores its dedication to supporting AlUla’s transformation into a global benchmark for sustainable development and a safe destination for tourists, residents, and workers.

The partnership signals a significant advancement in security technology tailored specifically for AlUla, integrating cutting-edge solutions such as secured communications, computer vision, early threat detection, access control, and video management. Thales’s Smart Digital Platform, serving as the cornerstone of the initiative, will facilitate the establishment of an Integrated Smart Operations Centre in AlUla. This platform boasts a robust video and audio analytics engine to enhance situational awareness across key sites, including the RCU Campus, the Old Town, and the Museum.

By providing operators with advanced Command & Control capabilities, the comprehensive solution ensures that AlUla remains a smart and secure tourist destination within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Bernard Roux, CEO of Thales in Saudi Arabia & Central Asia, expressed the company’s commitment to the project, stating, “We are honoured to be part of this exceptional project, to contribute to the security and safety of this unique historical and tourist destination, AlUla, and to the quality of life of its inhabitants with advanced digital and integrated technologies.”

The partnership between RCU and Thales aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 transformation program, emphasizing the growth of tourism and culture. Together, they aim to position AlUla as a model of economic, social, and environmental development, embodying the highest standards in security, sustainability, and overall well-being for the city and its visitors.

As AlUla continues to evolve across various sectors, including archaeology, education, and the arts, Thales’s expertise in digital platforms, big data, and artificial intelligence promises to deliver an unparalleled experience for visitors, further enriching Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape.