In a significant step towards integrating modern technology with religious tradition, Saudi Arabian authorities have unveiled the “Manara (Beacon) Robot” at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, according to a report on the Siasat website.
The AI-powered robot is designed to provide pilgrims with religious guidance and answers to their Sharia-related questions in multiple languages.
The initiative, launched by Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, President of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, aims to enrich the experience of worshippers by offering instant access to religious information.
The robot, also referred to as “Menarat Al-Haramain Robot”, has recently seen its second iteration, “Manara 2”, deployed to assist the millions of pilgrims visiting Islam’s holiest sites.
Developed by Duraya Company and SWB Technical Development Company, with the support of over 15 engineers and developers in collaboration with consulting firms, the Manara robot project was completed in approximately three months.
This development underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to its smart digital transformation and the utilization of artificial intelligence to serve visitors to the Two Holy Mosques.
Key features of the Manara robot:
- Multilingual support: The robot can communicate and provide information in at least 11 languages, including Arabic, English, French, Russian, Persian, Turkish, Malay, Urdu, Chinese, Bengali, and Hausa, catering to a diverse international audience.
- AI-powered database: It utilizes an extensive, pre-verified database of religious rulings (fatwas) to answer frequently asked questions.
- Direct scholar access: For more complex inquiries or those not covered in its database, the robot can facilitate a direct video call connection with qualified Islamic scholars.
- Interactive interface: It features a 21-inch touchscreen for user interaction and is designed with four wheels equipped with a smart stop system for smooth and flexible movement within the mosque.
- Advanced technology: The robot is equipped with front and bottom cameras for high-resolution image transmission, high-clarity speakers, a high-quality microphone, and operates on a 5 GHz wireless network for efficient data transmission.
- Culturally inspired design: The physical appearance of the Manara Robot is inspired by Islamic decorative motifs, reflecting the architecture of the Two Holy Mosques, thereby blending tradition with technological innovation.
According to official announcements from the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the Manara Robot is an “icon of enriching artificial intelligence in the Grand Mosque” and serves as a “creative enrichment beacon”.
The introduction of this technology marks an evolution in how religious guidance is provided, moving from traditional in-person consultations to leveraging AI for broader accessibility and efficiency.
This initiative is part of Saudi Arabia’s wider efforts to enhance the services provided during Hajj and Umrah, ensuring that pilgrims have a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience.
