Saudi Arabia to Launch AI Powered Guidance Robot To Enhance Hajj and Umrah Experience

Saudi Arabia has again highlighted the importance of application of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the Hajj and Umrah experiences for visitors with a focus on spiritual enhancement. Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque are among the first institutions in the world to introduce advanced technologies, including the ‘Guidance Robot’, to facilitate the rituals of Hajj and Umrah.

The Guidance Robot acts as a reactive resource that provides answers to religious questions on do’s and don’ts while performing Hajj and Umrah rituals, using approved fatwas in various languages including Arabic, English, French, Russian, Persian, Turkish, Malay, Urdu, Chinese, Bengali, and Hausa. Additionally, the robot is equipped with a 21-inch touchscreen, the robot provides all-round services to visitors of the center.

The robot is mobile and has a high-resolution camera so it is able to move smoothly, providing clear images of the environment. This Wi-Fi connectivity is capable of faster data transfer which results in the improved service efficiency. A unique feature of the robot is support for real-time direct communication between visitors and scholars, ensuring that the doubts of the visitors are clarified in real-time.

Furthermore, the robot is capable of translating sermons and religious lessons into eleven languages simultaneously, thus enhancing access to the teachings in a wide range of languages. Its advantages include fast responses to questions, round-the-clock availability, and facilities available to all visitors.

The Guidance Robot is an important step in the process of using AI to improve the journey, offering a wide array of services and means of communication which are accessible for all, regardless of their background.