Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has reaffirmed its dedication to leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enrich the spiritual journey of Umrah performers and pilgrims. The Prophet’s Mosque and the Grand Mosque’s Presidency of Religious Affairs have unveiled their adoption of cutting-edge technology, including the introduction of a “Guidance Robot,” aimed at facilitating the rites of Hajj and Umrah.
The innovative Guidance Robot has been meticulously engineered to aid visitors by addressing their religious inquiries pertaining to Hajj and Umrah rituals accurately. Drawing from the latest approved religious fatwas, this robotic assistant offers simplified explanations of the rituals in Arabic and eleven other international languages, ensuring accessibility for a diverse global audience.
Equipped with a 21-inch touch screen, the robot provides an array of services to Grand Mosque visitors. Its four wheels and smart stop system enable smooth navigation, while front and bottom cameras capture high-resolution images for clear transmission. With speakers delivering high-clarity sound and a microphone capturing exceptional audio quality, visitors can engage seamlessly with the robot.
Operating on a 5 GHz wireless network system (Wi-Fi), the robot facilitates fast and high-speed data transmission, thereby enhancing the efficiency of its services. A notable feature of this robot is its ability to facilitate direct communication between visitors and scholars/sheikhs via visual communication technology, enabling real-time clarification on fatwas and religious guidance.
Moreover, the robot offers simultaneous translation of sermons and religious lessons conducted at the Grand Mosque into eleven international languages, eliminating the need for human translators.
The Guidance Robot offers several advantages to pilgrims and Umrah performers, including prompt and accurate responses to inquiries, saving valuable time and effort. Operational round the clock, it provides constant support to visitors seeking information and guidance. Its user-friendly interface ensures accessibility for all visitors, regardless of their cultural or linguistic background.
This initiative underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to harnessing technology to enhance the spiritual experience of pilgrims, further cementing its position as a leader in leveraging AI for religious purposes.