MAKKAH: Saudi Arabia is using smart technologies and AI-powered platforms to serve nearly two million pilgrims during this year’s Hajj.
Authorities have introduced a range of advanced digital services aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage experience and making the spiritual journey smoother and more accessible for all participants.
One of these services is Manarah 2, an AI-powered robot serving pilgrims in over 20 languages. The robot will provide real-time information and assistance for any inquiries by the pilgrims in key locations.
Another service is the Nusuk card, which enables pilgrims to book appointments to visit the Holy Rawdah at the Prophet’s Mosque.
These cards also provide pilgrims with access to their personal contact information and accommodation details, helping to reduce the number of lost or missing individuals.
The Makkah Bus Guidance Centre, equipped with advanced smart technology, will work in coordination with the Nusuk platform and the Arshidni smart platform to ensure safe, accurate transportation and the smooth arrival of pilgrims at their designated accommodations.
Tawakkalna, a mobile health app, will update pilgrims about their health conditions and provide access to needed medical services.
Saudi Arabia will also launch Smart Enrichment Assistant, an application that informs visitors in multiple languages about many important services, including prayer times, schedules of imams, and locations of religious classes.
Saudi authorities have also introduced the Makkah Route Initiative, a high-quality service designed to streamline travel procedures for pilgrims in their home countries, ensuring a smooth and seamless process at designated departure points.
Additionally, Riyadh has implemented a luggage coding and sorting system to improve baggage handling at departure airports, enabling the direct delivery of luggage to pilgrims’ accommodations in Makkah or Madinah.
To further enrich the spiritual experience, mobile apps have been launched to support the recitation and study of the Holy Quran, enhancing pilgrims’ engagement with Islam’s holy book during their journey.
According to Saudi authorities, more than 1.2 million pilgrims have arrived so far in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage, which is set to start next week.
