Riyadh (Agencies): Saudi Arabia is leveraging artificial intelligence and smart technologies to provide seamless services for nearly two million Muslim pilgrims during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage.
Authorities have introduced AI-driven platforms to assist pilgrims, including Manarah 2, an AI robot offering real-time information in over 20 languages at key locations. Additionally, Nusuk cards enable pilgrims to book appointments for visiting the Holy Rawdah at the Prophet’s Mosque, while also providing contact and accommodation details to reduce cases of lost individuals.
The Makkah Bus Guidance Centre, integrated with smart technology, will work alongside the Nusuk and Arshidni platforms to ensure safe and accurate transportation for pilgrims. Meanwhile, the Tawakkalna mobile health app will update pilgrims on their health conditions and provide access to medical services.
Saudi Arabia is also launching the Smart Enrichment Assistant, an AI-powered application offering multilingual guidance on prayer times, religious classes, and schedules of imams. The Makkah Route Initiative aims to streamline travel procedures for pilgrims in their home countries, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey.
To further enhance convenience, authorities have introduced a luggage coding and sorting system to facilitate baggage delivery from departure airports to accommodations in Makkah and Madinah. Mobile apps for Quran recitation and learning have also been developed to enrich the spiritual experience of pilgrims.
With over 1.2 million pilgrims already arriving in Saudi Arabia, the Hajj pilgrimage, set to begin next week, continues to be a sacred journey for Muslims worldwide. The integration of AI and digital services underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to modernizing pilgrimage management while preserving its spiritual significance.