AI Technology Serves Millions Of Hajj Pilgrims In Saudi Arabia

JAKARTA - Saudi Arabia continues to take advantage of technological sophistication, including artificial intelligence (AI), in improving service quality for pilgrims. This digital innovation is a mainstay in supporting the smooth running of worship around two million pilgrims from various countries during this year's Hajj season.

One of the latest breakthroughs is the presence of a smart robot called Manarah 2, which can provide information instantly in more than 20 languages. This robot is placed at a number of main points to help pilgrims who need guidance or information during worship.

Not only that, but the Saudi government also launched a useful Nusuk card to arrange visits to holy places, such as Rawdah at the Prophet's Mosque. This card not only facilitates the flow of visits, but also functions to prevent pilgrims from getting lost or separated from the group.

In the transportation sector, smart technology is used in the Makkah Bus Guideline Center system which is integrated with the Nusuk platform and Arshidni's smart navigation system. This aims to ensure that the congregation's movement runs efficiently and safely to their respective inns.

Support for the health of the congregation is also a priority, through the Tawakkalna application which provides up-to-date information about medical conditions and access to emergency health services.

To support religious understanding during worship, the government introduced Smart Enrichment Assistant, a multi-language application that provides information about prayer times, imam schedules, and religious classes available around the worship area.

In addition, the Makkah Route Initiative is again implemented as a solution to accelerate the immigration process and document inspections from the country of origin, so that upon arrival in Saudi Arabia, the pilgrims can immediately continue their journey smoothly.

The digital-based baggage tracking and management system is also strengthened to ensure that the congregation's belongings arrive safely at their destination, both in Makkah and Medina.

Various other applications were also developed, including digital Qur'an learning and reading services to accompany the spiritual activities of the congregation.

To date, more than 1.2 million pilgrims have arrived in Saudi Arabia, with the peak of the pilgrimage scheduled to take place next week.

The pilgrimage itself is the fifth Islamic pillar that is required for every Muslim who can afford, and includes a series of rituals as a symbol of obedience and sacrifice, following in the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim and his family.