Saudi Arabia has deployed an artificial intelligence robot to assist pilgrims at the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah. The machine offers religious guidance and instant translation in multiple languages, part of a broader drive to enrich the pilgrim experience through technology.

What the Robot Does

According to the Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Two Holy Mosques, the robot provides interactive religious guidance and instant multilingual translation through an easy-to-use digital interface. Pilgrims can approach the device and ask questions, then receive answers in their own language.

The robot also shares practical information about facilities and locations within the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque. It can respond to a range of religious inquiries and deliver translations for pilgrims of different nationalities and cultural backgrounds. For visitors who do not speak Arabic, this removes a barrier that has long made it harder to ask simple questions or seek a religious ruling on the spot.

Part of a Wider Digital Push

The Presidency said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to use artificial intelligence and smart technologies to improve awareness and religious outreach while supporting the Kingdom's digital transformation strategy. Officials added that they would continue deploying modern interactive systems to raise service quality for worshippers at Islam's holiest sites.

The robot joins a growing set of smart services around the two holy mosques. Saudi Arabia has expanded the use of advanced technology during the Hajj and Umrah seasons, including smart applications, crowd management systems and AI-enabled services aimed at improving the experience of millions of pilgrims each year. Authorities have also launched a round-the-clock multilingual hotline that answers pilgrim questions in 11 languages, complementing the on-site help the robot provides.

Why It Matters for Pilgrims

Each year the two holy mosques host worshippers from almost every country on earth. Language differences can make it difficult for a pilgrim to find a prayer area, confirm the correct way to perform a rite, or simply locate a lost companion. Tools that translate instantly and answer common questions help pilgrims act with confidence and reduce the anxiety that often comes with visiting an unfamiliar and very crowded place.

The technology is meant to support, not replace, the scholars and trained staff already working at the mosques. For straightforward inquiries it offers a quick, accessible first point of contact, freeing human guides to focus on more complex needs.

Practical Tips for Using On-Site Smart Services

  • Treat the robot as a first stop, not the final word. For detailed religious questions, follow up with a qualified scholar or an official guidance desk at the mosque.
  • Know your language options. The smart services and the multilingual hotline cover many widely spoken languages, so ask in the language you are most comfortable with.
  • Use the directions feature. If you are unsure where a gate, prayer area or facility is, the robot can point you the right way and save time in the crowds.
  • Keep the Nusuk app handy. Permits, appointments and official guidance all run through the app, and it works alongside the on-site smart services.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings. When stopping to use any service in a busy area, step to the side so you do not block the flow of other worshippers.

The Presidency said the rollout reflects its aim of pairing authentic religious guidance with modern technology to serve the steady stream of pilgrims who visit throughout the year.