As millions prepare for the Hajj pilgrimage from June 4 to June 9, Saudi Arabia has introduced the second version of the “Manara (Beacon) Robot” at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Developed in just three months by Duraya Company and SWB Technical Development Company, the AI-powered robot offers real-time religious guidance in 11 languages, including Arabic, English, Urdu, Bengali, and Malay, catering to the global Muslim community.
The Manara Robot utilizes a verified database of religious rulings (fatwas) to answer common Sharia questions. For inquiries beyond its database, it connects pilgrims via video calls to qualified Islamic scholars (muftis), providing direct access to religious authorities. The Presidency of Religious Affairs describes the robot as an intelligent reference and facilitator for spiritual guidance.
Blending tradition and technology, the robot’s design features Islamic motifs reflecting the Two Holy Mosques’ architecture. It is equipped with a 21-inch touchscreen, high-resolution cameras, quality audio equipment, and a smart four-wheeled base for smooth indoor navigation over a 5G network.
In addition to the robot, Saudi authorities are deploying advanced smart crowd management tools, including ground sensors, gate readers, AI surveillance, and real-time pedestrian monitoring, to manage the anticipated surge of pilgrims and ensure their safety and convenience.
The Manara Robot complements Saudi Arabia’s broader investment in robotics and AI, including the recent launch of “Sara,” the country’s first humanoid robot embodying national culture and values. These technological advancements align with Vision 2030, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to modernizing society while preserving religious traditions.
