Mashable: This AI-powered robot is poised to revolutionize assistance and information dissemination at the holy site.

In a significant technological stride, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has introduced an AI-driven "guidance robot" to assist and enhance the experience of visitors and Umrah performers at Makkah's Grand Mosque. This AI-powered robot is poised to revolutionize assistance and information dissemination at the holy site.

The primary purpose of this cutting-edge robot is to provide crucial information, showcase the proper execution of rituals, elucidate religious decrees (fatwas), and address inquiries posed by visitors. Its unique feature lies in its capacity to engage in remote communication with scholars, enabling a seamless interaction between seekers of knowledge and religious experts. Speaking an impressive eleven languages including Chinese, Urdu, Russian, English, French, Farsi, Bengali, Arabic, Hausa, and Turkish, the robot ensures that a diverse range of visitors can access its services effectively.

Equipped with a user-friendly 21-inch touch screen, the robot offers an array of services tailored to cater to the unique needs and preferences of Grand Mosque visitors. This digital companion is engineered with four smartly designed wheels, each equipped with an intelligent stopping system, allowing the robot to navigate the premises smoothly and adapt to various spaces. Furthermore, the robot's front and bottom cameras provide high-resolution imagery, ensuring clear transmission of visuals.

Recently, the Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque emerged as an autonomous entity directly linked to King Salman on August 8th. Tasked with overseeing the affairs of imams and muezzins of both holy sites, the new body assumes responsibility for religious events, seminars, and teachings.

The introduction of the AI-powered guidance robot and the restructuring of the religious administration underscore Saudi Arabia's commitment to harmoniously blending tradition and technology. This step not only seeks to facilitate the spiritual journey of pilgrims but also exemplifies the nation's dedication to providing an inclusive and enriching experience for all who visit Makkah's Grand Mosque.