Latest news with #GeneralAuthorityfortheCare
Mint
5 days ago
- General
- Mint
Hajj 2025: How Saudi Arabia harnesses AI to transform pilgrim experience in 35 languages
Hajj 2025: More than two million Muslim pilgrims from 180 nations converge on Mecca for the Hajj 2025 beginning Wednesday, 4 June. Authorities in Saudi Arabia have placed cutting-edge AI translation tools at the core of a pilgrimage built on clarity, access, and spiritual depth to assist the pilgrims during what is often referred to as world's largest gathering of people, according to the General Authority for the Care of two Holy Mosques – Kaaba in Mecca and Prophet Mohammed's Mosque in Medina. One of the most powerful examples will be displayed during the Arafat sermon, a central and emotionally resonant moment of Hajj. On Thursday, 5 June, pilgrims will gather at Mount Arafat, on the outskirts of Mecca, where it is believed Mohammed, Islam's last prophet, delivered his final sermon. Tens of thousands of pilgrims are expected to assemble on the 70-metre (230-foot) high hill and its surrounding plain for hours of prayers and Quran recitals, staying there until the evening on Thursday in one of the most important Hajj rituals. This year, the Arafat sermon will be translated and transmitted live in real time into 35 languages, allowing millions around the world—and every pilgrim on the ground—to hear the message of unity, compassion, and faith in their own language, the statement said. 'Enabled by advanced AI systems, this global broadcast exemplifies how technology and tradition can harmonise to elevate spiritual experience,' the statement said. Among other measures, through initiatives like 'Smart Hajj' and the 'In their languages' programme, Saudi Arabia has embedded multilingual support into nearly every touchpoint of the pilgrimage. Pilgrims can now use the Nusuk App—available in multiple languages —to navigate their journey. Its AI-powered Personal Assistant delivers real-time voice translation, allowing users to ask for help, understand procedures, and communicate with worshippers and service teams seamlessly. Manara, a voice-activated robot, offers religious guidance in 11 languages, answering common questions with clarity and cultural sensitivity. On the ground, field teams use AI-powered devices that understand both speech and images—enabling quick, precise communication in each pilgrim's native language. Hajj 2025: Due to the high temperatures on the Day of Arafah, it's been required for pilgrims to remain inside the camps from 10 am to 4 pm. 'These tools don't just make things easier—they help every pilgrim feel understood, included, and supported in real time,' the statement said. Translated copies are widely distributed across the Grand Mosque or Kaaba in Mecca, allowing pilgrims to reflect on sacred verses in their own languages. In these most sacred spaces, worship becomes deeply personal and universally accessible. 'In urgent situations—whether medical emergencies or crowd management—AI-powered translation is proving to be more than just helpful; it can be life-saving. Instant, accurate communication across dozens of languages is essential to maintaining safety and order during one of the world's most densely populated religious gatherings,' read the statement. The Hajj is a must for those Muslims who can afford the travel costs to Saudi Arabia from their home countries. The Hajj pilgrimage is held annually between the 8th and 13th days of Zil-Hajj, the 12th and final month on the Islamic lunar calendar. This year, the corresponding Gregorian calendar dates of Hajj 2025 in Saudi Arabia are between 4 June and 8 June. The annual pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city of Islam in Saudi Arabia, which houses the Kaaba, Islam's holiest site, is performed during a particular period. Many pilgrims also visit the city of Medina, home to the Prophet Muhammad's Mosque and the second-holiest site in Islam. While not an official part of the Hajj, visiting Medina remains a significant spiritual experience for many devout Muslims. By placing real-time translation at the core of the Hajj experience, Saudi Arabia is creating a global case study for how technology can enhance—not replace—faith. India's quota for the Hajj in 2025 is 1.75 lakh pilgrims. The Union Ministry of Minority Affairs, through the Hajj Committee of India, manages arrangements for the bulk of the quota, which is 1,22,518 in 2025. The balance of the quota (over 50,000 pilgrims) was allotted to Private Tour Operators.
Leaders
30-03-2025
- General
- Leaders
Historic Gathering: Over 2.5M Celebrate Quran Recitation Completion in Makkah
Over 2.5 million worshippers gathered at the Grand Mosque in Makkah for the Isha and Taraweeh prayers on the 29th night of Ramadan. This momentous occasion marked the completion of the Quran recitation (Khatm Al-Qur'an) creating an uplifting and spiritual atmosphere for all attendees. From early morning, the Grand Mosque filled with a steady stream of Umrah pilgrims and worshippers. The Kingdom's meticulous preparations ensured that everyone could perform their rituals safely and comfortably. The General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque fully mobilized its resources. They coordinated closely with relevant authorities to manage the significant influx of worshippers. Efficient Crowd Management To facilitate the movement of attendees, authorities implemented integrated crowd management plans. Clearly defined pathways guided worshippers to designated prayer areas, including the Mataf. Special routes catered to the elderly and individuals with disabilities, ensuring accessibility for everyone. Furthermore, advanced logistics included 1,300 high-quality speakers for clear recitation and 33,000 sanitized prayer rugs. The 'Tanaqul' app linked 200+ electric carts, aiding mobility across the mosque's vast complex. Elevators and escalators operated nonstop to ease movement between floors. Additionally, more than 3,500 staff conducted five daily cleanings, while 15,000 liters of Zamzam water cooled thirsty worshippers. Sanitization teams worked round-the-clock, ensuring all surfaces met health standards. Emergency units monitored fire alarms and ventilation systems for immediate response. This remarkable gathering at the Grand Mosque showcased the unity and devotion of the Muslim community and highlighted the Kingdom's commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for worship. Short link : Post Views: 7
Asharq Al-Awsat
27-02-2025
- General
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Prophet's Mosque Welcomes More than 5 million Worshippers in One Week
The Prophet's Mosque experienced a significant influx of 5,037,157 worshippers last week, with the General Authority for the Care of the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque ensuring a smooth flow of visitors and providing comprehensive services to cater to their needs. A large number of visitors, totaling 607,591, greeted the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his two companions. Some 300,682 individuals performed prayers in the Holy Rawdah, where the authority enforced established crowd management procedures and visitation schedules to ensure order and accessibility, SPA reported. The authority also focused on communication and hygiene. Multilingual communication services were utilized by 6,391 visitors from various countries, facilitating effective interaction and guidance. Extensive sterilization and disinfection efforts were carried out to maintain a high standard of hygiene, using 24,256 liters of disinfectant. A substantial supply of Zamzam water of 1,370 tons was provided throughout the week, with 166 samples collected for testing and analysis. Furthermore, the authority facilitated the distribution of 219,227 iftar meals in designated areas within the mosque, providing convenient access to food for worshippers breaking their fast.
