It seems as if the Grand Mosque of Makkah is in favor of technological advancement. For this purpose,’ they have introduced AI robots of the purpose guiding visitors. Following the pattern of robotics throughout the world, the Grand Mosque launched a state-of-the-art robot that distributed Holy Qur’an to the pilgrims upon completing their Hajj.
A robot introduced in the Grand Mosque, Makkah to distribute Mushafs to worshipers pic.twitter.com/Nl5lOwypi5
— Haramain Sharifain (@hsharifain) July 10, 2022
According to the presidency of the Holy sites, these AI-powered robots are designed to boost accessibility. The robot, Undersecretary of the Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques for the Guiding Affairs of the Grand Mosque Badr Bin Abdullah Al-Firaih stated that the robot can go through the crowd, and finding its way. As reported by SPA, the speed of the robot is 1.2 – 5 m/second, whereas, it has a weight of 59 kgs. It also has a capacity of lifting 10 kgs of weight.
Previously, such robots were also seen in Prophet (S.A.W.W)’s Mosque in Madinah and Grand Mosque of Mecca, distributing Zamzam water to the pilgrims.
Islamic Centers Embraced Latest Technology – Robots Welcomed Visitors in 11 Languages
The robots installed in Makkah’s Grand Mosque can act as guiding assistant that speaks 11 languages. According to Saudi Gazette, the 11 languages spoken by the AI robots include Hausa, Arabic, English, French, Russian, Persian, Turkish, Malawi, Urdu, Chinese, and Bengali.
The robots have four wheels which allow them to travel quicker. It also consists of 21-inch touchscreen “faces” for the purpose of providing guidance or answering the questions by the pilgrims. To ensure that robots do not bump into the pilgrims, they have a stoppage system installed within.
The AI robots work through WIFI network, which interprets other languages simultaneously. It can also have a conversation with the local Sheikhs remotely. Within a matter of a few seconds, the robots translate various guidelines from one language to multiple others. It is not the first time that AI robots are introduced in Makkah’s Grand Mosque.
Saudi officials last year, welcomed visitors with robots distributing Zamzam water. While there were other robots that were there for the purpose of epidemic control and sterilization. These were particularly stationed to ensure the COVID-19 pandemic remains in control. Moreover, in December 2021, Muslims worshipers that were visually impaired or blind, were given electronic Quran to read.
Vision 2024 to Emerge as Learning Center for Muslims
Saudi Kingdom is eyeing for 2024 and for this purpose, it is all a part of the comprehensive development plan. Furthermore, the introduction of these AI-powered robots means that the Kingdom is willing to educate global Muslims about using the latest technology, exclusively e-learning and artificial intelligence. The two Holy Mosques will have all the latest technology for Muslims to offer prayers or visit during the time of pilgrimage.
