During LEAP 2026, held from August 31 to September 3 at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center in Malham, stc Group, the digital transformation enabler, is showcasing a smart virtual operations management system for three leading Red Sea destinations, developed in collaboration with Red Sea International. The system, created by iot squared, a subsidiary of the group, offers an ultra-high-definition live virtual tour covering an area of 10 square kilometers, including Shura Island and Turtle Bay, by merging virtual imagery with real-time data from actual environments.
Built on digital twin solutions, the system acts as a virtual replica of real locations, reflecting ongoing events in real time. It integrates high-resolution satellite imagery, 3D modeling data, and instantaneous information collected from sensors and operational systems within buildings, vehicles, and natural surroundings. This advanced model self-updates when new data or images become available, reducing the need for frequent aerial surveys and ensuring accurate simulation of terrestrial, marine, and atmospheric conditions.
The system relies on iot squared's Nucleus intelligent operations platform, which includes specialized modules providing each team with tailored visibility, such as guest experience management, mobility management, environmental management, and marine operations management. These modules enable teams to monitor guest journeys, oversee traffic, track building and facility indicators, and observe marine conditions, all within a unified operational environment instead of disparate systems. The platform also allows teams to simulate multiple scenarios and assess their potential impacts proactively, including weather changes, visitor numbers, and vehicle movement.
The practical value of the system is evident in real-time operational scenarios, such as managing the simultaneous departure of thousands of guests after a major event, where the mobility management system helps evaluate options like increasing transport capacity, adjusting bus frequencies, or redeploying field teams, while simulating the effects of these choices. In emergency situations, teams can assess the impact of shutting down an area and plan responses proactively. Beyond monitoring, the platform analyzes data to provide insights that support proactive decision-making and enhance response speed.
Red Sea International plans to integrate the visitor experience system into its website, enabling visitors to take virtual tours, plan activities, and receive suggested itineraries based on real-time conditions, with direct booking capabilities. Osama Al-Dahsh, CEO of iot squared, stated: "We developed this technology from a deep understanding of the destination's needs, designing it to offer practical solutions that meet its requirements and enable each operational department to optimize its processes." This collaboration is part of stc Group's participation in LEAP 2026, where it showcases advanced solutions for tourism, sports, logistics, construction, and real estate development, reinforcing its role as a strategic partner for the fifth consecutive year.