RIYADH: Saudi scouts are being taught how to use digital technology and quick-response codes on their smartphones to better help Hajj pilgrims with guidance, on-site navigation and route planning at the Kingdom’s holy sites.

The course, run by the Ministry of Education through the Saudi Arabian Scouts Association, began a 10-day training program in Makkah on Wednesday for scouts to help pilgrims during the annual Hajj, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Thirty-two trainees from four scout vanguards are currently enrolled to receive training.

A smart application that provides route planning, navigation and guidance to pilgrims at the holy sites will be used.

Explaining the benefits of using digital technology and QR codes during scout trips to holy sites, scout leader Abdullah Alharthi said that this approach helps to protect the environment by eliminating the need for paper maps and signs, and avoiding visual clutter in sacred spaces.

Additionally, the digital system ensures the encryption of scouts’ messages.

SASA, which works with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah to help pilgrims each year, plays an important role during Hajj season when, every year, scouts from all corners of the Kingdom gather to assist pilgrims during Hajj.

Regardless of age or gender, these volunteers devote their time and energy to enable pilgrims to fulfill the Hajj rituals with ease.

The scouts affiliated with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah primarily focus on assisting lost pilgrims by providing guidance and directions, ensuring they reach their designated camps safely.

Last year, according to SASA, 3,500 scouts were stationed around the holy sites in Makkah.

The SASA volunteers told Arab News they are classified into two age groups: the advanced scout category and the ranger category. The advanced scout category is made up of scout members aged between 15 and 17. The ranger category comprises those from 18 to 22, including scout leaders (150 of whom last year were women) and friends and pioneers of SASA.