Recitation, sermon robots launched at Grand Mosque in Makkah

Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais launches the smart Haramain project in Makkah. (Supplied)
Short Url
Updated 12 September 2022
Follow

Recitation, sermon robots launched at Grand Mosque in Makkah

  • Smart initiative part of ambitions to expand AI technology for millions of visitors

MAKKAH: Robots will recite the Holy Qur’an and provide information to visitors at Islam’s holiest site following the latest technology rollout by the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques.

The recitations, sermons and azan robots will feature at the Grand Mosque in Makkah through the work of the imam and muezzin affairs authority.

The smart robots will display barcodes enabling users to download services on smartphones. Alternatively, users can press commands on the robots to access information on prayers, imams, muezzins and weekly schedules, including the names of clerics delivering Friday sermons.

The launch of the robots by the presidency is part of a series of smart technology projects dedicated to the Two Holy Mosques to provide improved services to visitors.

FASTFACTS

• The smart robots will display barcodes enabling users to download services on smartphones. Alternatively, users can press commands on the robots to access information on prayers, imams, muezzins and weekly schedules.

• The Presidency of the Two Holy Mosque is keen to provide high- quality services, leadership and the latest administrative practices at the Grand Mosque to millions of Muslim visitors from around the world.

Chief of the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais said that the launch is part of a “big strategic plan” to implement the smart Haramain project, according to Vision 2030 and the strategic 2024 plan of the presidency to provide improved services to visitors.

Al-Sudais added that the attention of the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques is not limited to maximizing the utilization of modern technology in the Two Holy Mosques, but also aims at providing the same technology and and sophisticated services in the service of visitors.

He said that the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosque is ensuring the facilitation of daily services for visitors by reducing physical efforts and enhancing smart technology to keep pace with Vision 2030.

Al-Sudais added that the presidency is determined to move forward and keep pace with digital transformation, support technological development, provide a strategy to create task forces and ensure the sustainability of a creative culture.

The aim of the recitations, sermons and azan robot is to convey the messages of imams and muezzins of the Two Holy Mosques to visitors.

Al-Sudais has launched other smart robots that work without human intervention, including a disinfectant and sterilization robot, fatwa robot, smart disinfectant robot and a Holy Kaaba surface cleaning robot.

The Presidency of the Two Holy Mosque is keen to provide high-quality services, leadership and the latest administrative practices at the Grand Mosque to millions of Muslim visitors from around the world.

 


Saudi Arabia launches Makkah Route Initiative at Ankara Esenboga Airport

The Kingdom’s ambassador to Turkiye Fahd bin Asaad Abu Al-Nasr launches the Makkah Route Initiative at Ankara Esenboga Airport.
Updated 11 sec ago
Follow

Saudi Arabia launches Makkah Route Initiative at Ankara Esenboga Airport

  • A lounge was set up at the airport in Ankara, making it the second Turkish airport to facilitate Makkah Route Initiative pilgrims

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia launched the Makkah Route Initiative at Ankara Esenboga Airport on Monday with the Kingdom’s ambassador to Turkiye in attendance.

A lounge was set up at the airport in Ankara, making it the second Turkish airport to facilitate Makkah Route Initiative pilgrims, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The initiative aims to provide high-quality services to Hajj pilgrims from beneficiary countries.As part of the initiative, biometric data is collected in the pilgrim’s home country and the necessary procedures are carried out there. An electronic Hajj visa is also issued in the pilgrim’s country.

The Kingdom’s General Directorate of Passports will ensure that health requirements are met before pilgrims enter the country, and baggage will be coded and sorted according to transportation and accommodation arrangements.

Pilgrims will be transported to their residences in Makkah and Madinah by bus and partner agencies will transport their luggage separately.


Rainy Abha alive with color as jacaranda trees bloom

Updated 13 May 2024
Follow

Rainy Abha alive with color as jacaranda trees bloom

  • Scores of picnickers and tourists have been drawn to areas like Art Street where the blossoms provide a picturesque backdrop
  • Asir is home to more than 15,000 jacaranda trees, some of which can grow to a height of 18 meters (60 feet)

RIYADH: After the recent rains in Asir, the city of Abha is awash with color as the jacaranda trees that line its streets spring into life.

Scores of picnickers and tourists have been drawn to areas like Art Street where the blossoms provide a picturesque backdrop to the hustle and bustle of the city, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The Asir region is home to more than 15,000 jacaranda trees, some of which can grow to a height of 18 meters (60 feet).

The jacaranda genus, which comprises about 45 species of trees and shrubs, is known for its ability to thrive in temperate regions. Within the Kingdom, the trees are mostly cultivated in moderate regions to the south.


Saudi FM meets with Standing Committee of International Humanitarian Law delegation

Saudi FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan receives a delegation from the Standing Committee of International Humanitarian Law
Updated 13 May 2024
Follow

Saudi FM meets with Standing Committee of International Humanitarian Law delegation

  • Strengthening of international unification with regard to supporting efforts made to ensure human security and safety in all parts of the world was discussed

RIYADH: Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan received the chairman of the Standing Committee of International Humanitarian Law Dr. Jalal Al-Owaisi in Riyadh on Monday.

During the reception, Prince Faisal, Al-Owaisi, and his accompanying delegation discussed aspects of cooperation in the fields of international humanitarian law.

The strengthening of international unification with regard to supporting efforts made to ensure human security and safety in all parts of the world was also discussed during the meeting.

Later, a memorandum of understanding to enhance joint cooperation in the field of international humanitarian law was signed by the Foreign Ministry and the committee. 

The MoU aims to support the integration of joint efforts and facilitate the exchange of experiences and transfer of knowledge in the field of international humanitarian law.

The chairman of the Standing Committee of International Humanitarian Law Dr. Jalal Al-Owaisi and Saudi Deputy Foreign Minister Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji sign a MoU in Riyadh on Monday. (SPA)

 


Madinah governor inspects pilgrim services ahead of Hajj

Updated 13 May 2024
Follow

Madinah governor inspects pilgrim services ahead of Hajj

RIYADH: Madinah Gov. Prince Salman bin Sultan on Monday visited the Welcome and Reception Center for Pilgrims on the Hijrah route to inspect the services offered to pilgrims and the preparations made to receive those who are coming to perform the Hajj rituals this year.

He also reviewed the center’s workflow, ensuring it guarantees the comfort of pilgrims and the expeditious completion of procedures related to the services provided to them, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Prince Salman, who is also chairman of the Hajj and Visit Committee in the region, inspected the workflow mechanism and services provided to pilgrims arriving from King Abdulaziz International Airport and Jeddah Islamic Port, as well as those visiting Madinah after completing the rituals.

He also examined the center’s operational indicators, which automatically monitor arrivals and groupings, along with the plan to enhance the service system through screens monitoring bus arrivals and the completion of procedures within a period not exceeding 120 seconds, by guiding pilgrims and ensuring their residences are ready to receive them.

During the tour, Prince Salman received an explanation of the center’s components, including a support center for transportation services, health clinics and ambulance transportation services, as well as the security and safety system and integrated operational services in welcome lounges, bus routes, the charity warehouse headquarters, transportation companies, and other administrative buildings within the center’s scope.


Al-Yanfa village restoration unlocks Asir’s architectural treasures

Updated 13 May 2024
Follow

Al-Yanfa village restoration unlocks Asir’s architectural treasures

RIYADH: Municipal authorities in the Asir region have announced the completion of renovation and development works in the historic Al-Yanfa heritage village in the Tamniah district.

The initiative aims to elevate the village into a premier destination, attracting visitors and tourists from across the world, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

Al-Yanfa, situated in the scenic Al-Shaaf district of Asir, reflects the region’s cultural heritage. Just 45 km from Abha, the village features historical landmarks such as ancient buildings, mosques and fortified structures amid Asir’s picturesque landscapes. It is also known for its moderate climate and lush green surroundings.

Bandar Al-Nafiei, deputy secretary for projects at the Asir Municipality, highlighted the restoration efforts. He said that the project began with rehabilitating pathways and courtyards, with stone paving throughout the village.

To enhance the village’s charm, illumination fixtures were placed along pathways and courtyards, Al-Nafiei said.

Extensive landscaping was also undertaken, covering every part of the village, from entrances to pathways and courtyards. Additionally, a rainwater drainage project was implemented, incorporating natural wood elements, the SPA reported.

Al-Nafiei said that the village project, spanning more than 60,000 sq m, was implemented using advanced engineering methods. This approach aimed to provide visitors with easy access to explore the village and its historical heritage.