As millions of Muslims undertake the sacred Hajj pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia has unveiled its second artificial intelligence-powered robot, ‘Manara 2’, at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.
This advanced machine is designed to assist pilgrims by answering religious questions, further enhancing the spiritual journey with cutting-edge technology.
Chief of the Presidency of Religious Affairs in the Two Holy Mosques, Abdulrahman Al Sudais, officially launched Manara 2.
The robot is equipped to communicate in multiple languages, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to digital transformation and leveraging modern innovations to enrich the pilgrims’ experience.
Manara 2 functions as an intelligent reference point, utilising AI to provide answers grounded in Islamic Sharia law. It draws from a comprehensive, regulated database of religious knowledge. For queries not pre-stored, the robot facilitates direct video calls with Islamic scholars; ensuring pilgrims receive accurate and personalised guidance.
This new addition follows the successful introduction of the first robot, ‘Manara’, during the recent holy month of Ramadan. Both robots boast designs inspired by traditional Islamic decorations, echoing the magnificent architecture of the Two Holy Mosques in Saudi Arabia.
The introduction of these AI robots marks a significant evolution in how religious guidance is provided at Islam’s holiest sites.
Historically, religious edicts (fatwas) were delivered by seated clerics, a practice that later transitioned to phone consultations.
The integration of AI robots represents the latest step in this technological progression, aiming to offer seamless and accessible support to pilgrims from across the globe.
The initiative underscores Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to combine tradition with innovation in serving the needs of the global Muslim community.