ISLAMABAD: Every year, the Haj pilgrimage brings together over two million Muslims from more than 180 countries — making it not only the world’s largest religious gathering but also one of its most complex communication challenges.
This year, Saudi Arabia has harnessed the power of artificial intelligence and real-time language translation to eliminate barriers and elevate the spiritual experience of pilgrims.
According to the Saudi Ministry for Haj and Umrah, this technological integration is “rewriting the rules of communication at Haj,” ensuring that the pilgrimage is more inclusive, connected, and spiritually immersive than ever before.
Arafat Sermon Translated in 35 Languages
A key milestone in this year’s Haj innovation came during the Arafat sermon — a pivotal and deeply emotional moment in the pilgrimage.
For the first time, it was simultaneously translated into 35 languages in real time. Enabled by advanced AI systems under the supervision of the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques, the sermon’s message of unity, mercy, and devotion was instantly accessible to millions globally and to every pilgrim on site.
“Translation is not just a technical feature — it’s a spiritual bridge,” the ministry emphasized, calling it a landmark achievement in merging tradition with modernity to enhance worship.
Smart Haj, Manara AI, and Multilingual Support
Through platforms like the Nusuk App, pilgrims now enjoy AI-powered personal assistants offering real-time voice translation, enabling them to communicate effortlessly with volunteers, healthcare teams, and fellow pilgrims.
The app also provides step-by-step guidance in multiple languages, helping visitors navigate complex rituals.
‘Manara’, a voice-activated AI robot, answers religious and procedural questions in 11 languages, providing clarity and cultural understanding.
Field teams equipped with AI translation devices can interpret speech and images, resolving queries instantly and minimizing confusion in high-density areas.
Moreover, multilingual printed and digital copies of the Holy Quran are readily available in the Grand Mosque, allowing pilgrims to reflect on the sacred verses in their own languages.
In emergency scenarios, whether for medical aid or crowd control, these AI tools become crucial. “Accurate, instant communication in dozens of languages is now a life-saving function,” the ministry said.
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has also launched awareness kits and operates a 24/7 multilingual health call center (937), offering support in major languages including Urdu — ensuring that Pakistani pilgrims receive care and guidance without linguistic barriers.
By placing real-time translation and AI at the heart of Haj operations, Saudi Arabia has created a model for global religious events. In the ministry’s words, “This is not just innovation — it’s a new chapter in spiritual accessibility.”
