More than a million pilgrims are set to travel to Saudi Arabia for this year’s Hajj pilgrimage. Saudi Arabia has decided to use Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the latest smart technology to further facilitate and strengthen Hajj affairs. Such technology will be used in both Makkah and Madinah. The main authority overseeing the affairs of the Two Holy Mosques said that a large number of smart or digital platforms will be used this year. This is is the first time such devices are being used to facilitate Hajj rituals. This includes an AI robot named Manara 2. This is a later version of the previously used Manara robot. These robots have the capability to provide necessary information and guidance to pilgrims. These robots, which are currently being used in Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, are equipped with a 21-inch touch screen. In addition, the robots have access to a 5G network. They are also fitted with high-quality cameras.
Manara 2 has the ability to communicate in 11 languages. The robot can instantly answer common questions related to religious matters, and for questions requiring further details, the robot can send these questions to scholars via video, who then provide answers. In addition to Arabic and English, the robots can interact in Bengali, Malay, and Urdu. Besides these robots, various sensors, gate readers, and AI technology-based surveillance systems will be used by relevant authorities to monitor people’s movements in real-time. Using such devices also makes it easier to identify crowded areas. Additionally, a large number of drones will be collecting information. As this information is received, important matters will be identified by the authorities using AI software. Using this information, immediate steps can be taken to prevent tragic incidents such as stampedes.
Furthermore, to serve pilgrims, smart screens with information in various languages will be set up by relevant authorities in main areas to provide instant information and assistance. Along with this, a digital platform to assist in reciting and learning the Holy Quran will also be established. In addition, through an app named Surah Al-Fatihah, there will be an opportunity to learn the detailed meaning of the most frequently recited surah of the Quran. Besides these, special efforts will also be made to provide religious, intellectual, and educational assistance to pilgrims from different countries.
