Saudi Arabia Launches Digital Platform for Mosque Services

Riyadh, August 15, 2026, SPA — Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance, Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Alsheikh, launched on Thursday a digital platform to manage mosque affairs, along with a dedicated application for mosque staff, in partnership with telecommunications operator Zain. This initiative marks a significant step in automating services for mosques across the Kingdom, covering a vast network of religious sites.

Context and Background

The new platform aims to unify data and procedures for 85,968 mosques and Eid prayer grounds across the Ministry’s 13 regional branches, spanning 151 cities and governorates, and serving some 14,647 users. The tool is designed to improve the quality and accessibility of information while providing reliable indicators and reports to support oversight and decision-making.

This launch is part of the Ministry’s broader efforts to accelerate digital transformation and modernize mosque management, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of enhancing government services and leveraging technology for societal benefit.

Key Details

The system encompasses the entire lifecycle of religious buildings—from identifying needs and charitable contributions for mosque construction to their building, registration, and operation. It extends to field inspections, maintenance operations, asset management, performance indicators, and decision support.

One of the standout features is the field inspection functionality. Inspectors, both male and female, can conduct checks using geolocation for each mosque, documenting, recording, and validating results and observations instantly. The system is linked to the “Masajid” application, which allows users to search for mosques, contribute to cleaning, maintenance, and construction campaigns, view prayer times, determine the Qibla direction, and submit reports and ratings electronically.

Since its pilot phase, the system has recorded impressive usage: over 3.6 million inspection visits, including 2,866,570 by inspectors, 32,732 exceptional visits, 88,164 for Friday prayers, 594,956 by female inspectors, 19,155 for Eid prayer grounds, and 335 checks of vacant lands attributable to the Ministry’s purview.

Implications and Impact

The deployment of this digital platform enhances the Kingdom’s commitment to improving the quality of services for mosques and worshippers. By automating processes and centralizing data, it ensures greater transparency and efficiency in mosque management. The geolocation-based inspections improve oversight, while the public-facing app fosters community engagement, allowing citizens to contribute directly to the upkeep of their local mosques.

International observers see this as part of Saudi Arabia’s broader push to modernize its religious institutions, showcasing a balanced approach that respects tradition while embracing innovation. The partnership with Zain highlights the role of the private sector in supporting government digital initiatives.

Vision 2030 Alignment

This initiative aligns perfectly with Saudi Vision 2030’s objectives of enhancing government effectiveness and digital transformation. By streamlining mosque services, the Kingdom not only improves the pilgrim and worshipper experience but also demonstrates its commitment to leveraging technology for societal progress. The Ministry’s proactive approach is a testament to the leadership’s dedication to excellence in all aspects of governance, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global leader in innovation and service delivery.

20 Questions

Q1. Who launched the digital platform for mosque affairs?

A1. Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Alsheikh, the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance, launched the platform in partnership with Zain, a telecommunications operator.

Q2. How many mosques does the platform cover?

A2. The platform covers 85,968 mosques and Eid prayer grounds, managed across 13 regional branches of the Ministry.

Q3. What is the main purpose of the platform?

A3. The platform aims to unify data and procedures, automate services, and improve the management and oversight of mosques in Saudi Arabia.

Q4. Which application is linked to the platform?

A4. The platform is linked to the ‘Masajid’ application, which allows users to search for mosques, contribute to campaigns, and access prayer times.

Q5. How many users does the system serve?

A5. The system serves approximately 14,647 users across various roles, including inspectors and administrative staff.

Q6. What are some key features of the system?

A6. Key features include field inspections with geolocation, maintenance tracking, asset management, and performance indicators.

Q7. How many inspection visits occurred during the pilot phase?

A7. Over 3.6 million inspection visits were recorded, with the majority by inspectors and a significant number by female inspectors.

Q8. What are the benefits for users of the Masajid app?

A8. Users can donate, report issues, view prayer times, and find the Qibla direction, enhancing their connection to the mosque community.

Q9. How does the system support decision-making?

A9. The system provides reliable indicators and reports that aid officials in making informed decisions regarding mosque management.

Q10. What is the significance of the partnership with Zain?

A10. The partnership with Zain leverages telecommunications expertise to ensure a robust digital infrastructure for the platform.

Q11. How does this initiative align with Vision 2030?

A11. It supports Vision 2030’s goals of digital transformation and enhancing government services, contributing to a diversified and modern Saudi Arabia.

Q12. What types of inspections are included?

A12. Inspections include regular checks, exceptional visits, Friday prayer visits, and visits to Eid prayer grounds, as well as vacant land checks.

Q13. How does geolocation enhance inspections?

A13. Geolocation allows inspectors to locate mosques precisely and record their findings with accurate location data, improving accountability.

Q14. What is the role of the Ministry in this project?

A14. The Ministry oversees the project, ensuring that services are delivered effectively and that the platform meets its objectives.

Q15. Can the public access the platform?

A15. The public can access services through the Masajid application, while the main management system is for official use.

Q16. How does the platform improve transparency?

A16. By digitizing records and centralizing data, the platform makes information more accessible and verifiable, enhancing transparency.

Q17. What future developments are expected?

A17. Future developments may include expanded features and wider adoption across all regional branches, further improving mosque services.

Q18. How does the system handle maintenance requests?

A18. The system tracks maintenance needs and operations, allowing for efficient allocation of resources and timely repairs.

Q19. What is the total number of regional branches?

A19. The Ministry has 13 regional branches, all of which are integrated into the platform.

Q20. How can this effort strengthen community ties?

A20. By enabling donations and community contributions, the platform encourages active involvement in mosque upkeep, fostering a sense of ownership and belonging.

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