Saudi Arabia Introduces AI-Powered Robot to Answer Islamic Queries at Grand Mosque

Saudi Arabia has made a significant step in leveraging technology to enhance the religious experience of Muslims gathering for the Hajj rites by introducing a second artificial intelligence-powered robot, Manara 2 (Beacon II), to answer religious queries. This latest innovation is part of the country's effort to keep pace with digital transformation and to utilize cutting-edge technologies. The robot, designed to serve as a smart reference, can answer questions related to Islamic Sharia law through an integrated, governed database, with the option to communicate directly with Islamic scholars via video call if the question is not previously stored.

Key Takeaways:

• The second AI-powered robot, named Manara 2 (Beacon II), has been introduced at the Grand Mosque in Mecca to answer religious queries from Muslims performing the Hajj rites.
• The robot is part of Saudi Arabia's effort to keep pace with digital transformation and utilizes cutting-edge technologies to enrich the pilgrims' religious experience.
• The robot, inspired by Islamic decorations, serves as a smart reference that can answer questions related to Islamic Sharia law through an integrated, governed database.
• The robot offers the option of direct communication with Islamic scholars via video call if the question is not already stored.
• The method of providing answers to religious queries in Islam's two holiest sites has evolved significantly, transitioning from traditional seated clerics, to phone-based consultations, and now online services.

Statistics:

• 2: The number of AI-powered robots introduced at the Grand Mosque in Mecca to answer religious queries.
• The first such robot, named 'Manara', was launched during the past holy month of Ramadan.
• Over the years, the method of providing answers to religious queries has evolved significantly, with a transition from traditional to digital means.

Sources:

• (Gulf News)