Promotion of Virtue Commission Adopts AI Technologies to Serve Pilgrims

The General Presidency of the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice has adopted a suite of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, to enhance the experience of pilgrims, Umrah performers, and visitors to the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque. This initiative, announced on May 29, 2024, in Riyadh via the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to leveraging innovation in service of the millions who undertake these sacred journeys annually.

Context and Background

The Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, a government body responsible for promoting ethical conduct and providing guidance, has increasingly integrated modern technology into its operations. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes digital transformation and enhanced services for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. The use of AI and other tools is part of a broader effort to ensure that pilgrims can perform their rituals with ease, safety, and spiritual focus.

Dr. Abdulrahman bin Muhanna Al-Juhani, Undersecretary at the General Presidency for Awareness and Guidance, outlined the technological solutions being employed. These include the Hajj, Umrah, and Visit platform, the Mabroor app, 3D augmented reality, Wi-Fi technology, an interactive digital platform, QR codes, chatbot, Near Field Communication (NFC), and interactive maps. Such tools are designed to provide real-time information, guidance, and support to pilgrims throughout their journey.

Key Details

As part of the initiative, three million smart cards have been printed, offering direct access to the Hajj, Umrah, and Visit platform and the Mabroor app via QR codes. Additionally, 61 display screens and 50 awareness billboards have been deployed to disseminate information. For this year’s Hajj, the General Presidency will operate 50 educational and field points staffed by 800 experienced and qualified employees dedicated to serving pilgrims.

The Commission has also activated awareness initiatives in collaboration with various government agencies at key entry points. These include King Abdulaziz International Airport, King Fahd International Airport, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport, and Al-Ahsa International Airport, as well as land borders and pilgrim reception lounges in the Eastern Region, Northern Borders Region, Najran Region, Al-Jouf Region, and Qassim Region. The initiatives also extend to the Haramain High Speed Railway stations in Makkah, Jeddah, and Madinah, and the courtyards of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.

Implications and Impact

The integration of AI and digital tools by the Commission is expected to significantly improve the pilgrimage experience by providing timely, accurate information and facilitating navigation and ritual performance. This technological adoption also demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s capacity to manage large-scale religious events efficiently, reinforcing its role as a global leader in hosting Hajj and Umrah. The use of smart cards and apps not only streamlines access to services but also enhances communication between authorities and pilgrims, potentially reducing congestion and improving safety.

Furthermore, these initiatives contribute to the Kingdom’s broader goals of economic diversification and digital innovation. By showcasing advanced technologies in a religious context, Saudi Arabia underscores its commitment to modernizing infrastructure and services, which can attract more pilgrims and visitors, thereby boosting the tourism and hospitality sectors. The collaboration with various airports and transport hubs also highlights a whole-of-government approach to service delivery.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This technological drive is closely aligned with Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s strategic framework to diversify the economy and enhance public services. The Vision emphasizes digital transformation, improved quality of life, and the facilitation of religious tourism. By adopting AI and other cutting-edge solutions, the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice is contributing to the Kingdom’s ambitions to provide world-class services to pilgrims, reflecting the leadership’s dedication to serving the Guests of God. As Saudi Arabia continues to welcome millions of pilgrims, such innovations will play a crucial role in ensuring that their spiritual journey is seamless and fulfilling, further solidifying the Kingdom’s status as a global hub for Islamic pilgrimage.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the main purpose of the Commission for the Promotion of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice?

A1. The Commission promotes virtue and prevents vice, providing guidance and services to pilgrims and visitors. It ensures ethical conduct and facilitates religious rituals at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.

Q2. What technologies has the Commission adopted to serve pilgrims?

A2. The Commission uses artificial intelligence, the Hajj, Umrah, and Visit platform, the Mabroor app, 3D augmented reality, Wi-Fi, interactive digital platforms, QR codes, chatbots, NFC, and interactive maps to assist pilgrims.

Q3. How many smart cards have been printed for pilgrims?

A3. Three million smart cards have been printed. These cards provide direct access to the Hajj, Umrah, and Visit platform and the Mabroor app via QR codes, facilitating easy access to services.

Q4. What is the role of Dr. Abdulrahman bin Muhanna Al-Juhani?

A4. Dr. Abdulrahman bin Muhanna Al-Juhani serves as the Undersecretary at the General Presidency for Awareness and Guidance. He announced the technological initiatives aimed at enhancing the pilgrimage experience.

Q5. How many display screens and awareness billboards are being used?

A5. The Commission has deployed 61 display screens and 50 awareness billboards. These are used to disseminate information and guidance to pilgrims throughout their journey.

Q6. How many educational and field points will be operational during Hajj?

A6. There will be 50 educational and field points during Hajj. These points are staffed by 800 experienced and qualified employees dedicated to serving pilgrims.

Q7. At which airports are awareness initiatives active?

A7. Awareness initiatives are active at King Abdulaziz International Airport, King Fahd International Airport, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Prince Naif bin Abdulaziz International Airport, and Al-Ahsa International Airport.

Q8. What is the Mabroor app?

A8. The Mabroor app is a digital tool that provides pilgrims with essential information and services. It helps them navigate rituals and access guidance, enhancing their overall pilgrimage experience.

Q9. How does the Commission use artificial intelligence?

A9. The Commission uses AI to provide intelligent assistance, such as chatbots and interactive platforms. These tools offer real-time guidance, answer queries, and help pilgrims perform rituals efficiently.

Q10. What is the significance of the Haramain High Speed Railway in these initiatives?

A10. The Haramain High Speed Railway stations in Makkah, Jeddah, and Madinah are key locations for awareness initiatives. They serve as hubs where pilgrims can access information and services.

Q11. How do QR codes on smart cards benefit pilgrims?

A11. QR codes on smart cards provide quick access to the Hajj, Umrah, and Visit platform and the Mabroor app. This allows pilgrims to instantly retrieve information and services via their smartphones.

Q12. What are interactive maps used for?

A12. Interactive maps help pilgrims navigate the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, as well as surrounding areas. They provide real-time directions and points of interest.

Q13. What is Near Field Communication (NFC) and how is it used?

A13. NFC is a technology that enables short-range communication between devices. It is used to facilitate quick access to information and services, such as tapping smart cards or phones at designated points.

Q14. How does the Commission collaborate with other government agencies?

A14. The Commission collaborates with various government agencies to activate awareness initiatives at airports, land borders, and railway stations. This ensures a coordinated approach to serving pilgrims.

Q15. What regions have pilgrim reception lounges?

A15. Pilgrim reception lounges are located in the Eastern Region, Northern Borders Region, Najran Region, Al-Jouf Region, and Qassim Region. These lounges provide services and information to arriving pilgrims.

Q16. How does this initiative align with Vision 2030?

A16. It aligns with Vision 2030 by promoting digital transformation, enhancing public services, and improving the quality of life. It also supports religious tourism and economic diversification.

Q17. What is 3D augmented reality used for in this context?

A17. 3D augmented reality provides immersive experiences, such as virtual tours or guidance. It helps pilgrims visualize rituals and locations, enhancing their understanding and spiritual engagement.

Q18. How many employees are involved in serving pilgrims during Hajj?

A18. There are 800 experienced and qualified employees involved. They staff educational and field points, providing guidance and assistance to pilgrims throughout the Hajj season.

Q19. What is the Hajj, Umrah, and Visit platform?

A19. The Hajj, Umrah, and Visit platform is a comprehensive digital portal. It offers information, services, and resources for pilgrims, including visa procedures, rituals, and logistics.

Q20. How do these technologies improve the pilgrimage experience?

A20. These technologies provide timely information, facilitate navigation, and offer personalized assistance. They reduce congestion, enhance safety, and allow pilgrims to focus on their spiritual journey.

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