In a move designed to streamline the pilgrimage experience, Saudi Arabia's Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) is implementing a suite of smart solutions for visitors to the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, collectively known as the Two Holy Mosques. These advancements leverage artificial intelligence (AI) and digital services to provide a more convenient and informative experience for worshippers, particularly during the busy Umrah season.
SDAIA's strategy hinges on collaboration with various government agencies involved in serving Umrah pilgrims and visitors. This collaborative effort aligns with the directives of the Saudi leadership and the goals of the Pilgrim Experience Programme, a key initiative under Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to transform the Kingdom into a leading hub for religious tourism.
A cornerstone of the initiative is the integration of essential services into the "Tawakkalna" app, a widely used mobile application in Saudi Arabia. Available in seven languages across 77 countries, Tawakkalna now offers Umrah pilgrims functionalities such as obtaining Umrah permits, accessing real-time weather updates, and locating the direction of the Qibla (the direction towards the Kaaba in Mecca). Additionally, the app provides prayer times and other pertinent information for worshippers.
SDAIA's data-driven approach extends beyond mobile applications. The authority is also working on integrating smart signage within the mosque complexes. These digital signs will display vital information in multiple languages, including prayer timings, crowd density levels, and designated areas for specific rituals. This real-time information dissemination is expected to improve navigation and crowd management within the mosques.
Furthermore, SDAIA is exploring the potential of AI-powered chatbots to assist pilgrims with various inquiries. These virtual assistants can provide information on mosque protocols, answer frequently asked questions, and even translate languages in real-time. This service is envisioned to be particularly helpful for non-Arabic speaking visitors.
The implementation of these smart solutions reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to harnessing technology to enhance the spiritual journey of pilgrims visiting the Two Holy Mosques. By streamlining access to information, improving navigation within the mosque complexes, and facilitating communication, these advancements aim to enrich the pilgrimage experience for worshippers from all over the world.