Technology spreading its branches into every industry. This is because it simplifies the way we do things. Hence, it is unsurprising that Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has released a promotional video which reveals how the country will use Artificial Intelligence by 2030 to better manage the Islamic pilgrimage and streamline the process for millions of Muslims.
The Minister of Hajj and Umrah Mohammad Saleh bin Taher Benten announced that they will utilize AI and other advanced technology so that the faithful can perform their religious duties in a better environment.
The video shows pilgrims being supported by a number of technologies, including wearable devices and contactless cards. They will register through an app from the Ministry, and will then receive a package including a contactless card, earphone and wristband before they travel.
The contactless card will then act as passport, to enable them to go through immigration control; train ticket to take the new Al Haramain train service, and even hotel room key, to eliminate the need to book in.
The wristband and earpiece will provide support services and advice for pilgrims, for example counting the number of circumambulations of the Kaaba or providing audio cues as to which prayers the pilgrim should recite at certain points.
The earpiece will also provide information and updates, as well as acting as a smart translator so that users can speak to support personnel in any language. The smart band and card can also act as a tracker, helping to locate people who get lost or separated from their party.
If this is pulled off, it will definitely help the millions from around the world who travel to Saudi Arabia for the annual pilgrimage.
