Hajj services: Enjoining good and forbidding evil provides guidance in 15 international languages
A comprehensive plan to serve the pilgrims
The General Presidency for the Promotion of Virtue and Prevention of Vice announced the completion of its preparations for launching its operational plan for this year's Hajj season, under the slogan "Welcome." His Excellency the President General of the Presidency, Sheikh Dr. Abdulrahman bin Abdullah Al-Sanad, affirmed that the Presidency will employ a comprehensive system of advanced human and technological services to serve the pilgrims of the Sacred House of God, through 900 employees and field officers distributed across 66 awareness sites in 10 different regions.
Historical background and ongoing efforts
These efforts come within the context of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's historic role in serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors. Since its founding, the Kingdom has given meticulous attention to organizing Hajj affairs, the fifth pillar of Islam, which attracts millions of Muslims from around the world annually. The services provided to pilgrims have witnessed tremendous development over the decades, shifting from a focus on basic logistics to adopting a comprehensive approach that integrates the latest technologies to ensure a safe, accessible, and spiritually enriching Hajj experience, as reflected in the Authority's plan this year.
Field expansion and comprehensive coverage
Dr. Al-Sanad explained that the Presidency's participation this year has witnessed a qualitative leap, with the geographical scope of field services expanded to include 10 vital areas along the pilgrims' route. The 66 locations vary, ranging from integrated guidance centers in Makkah, Madinah, and the Holy Sites, to awareness points at land, air, and sea border crossings, and pilgrim cities. To ensure effective communication with pilgrims of different nationalities, field staff have been supported with specialized translators in 15 international languages, in addition to sign language, thus removing language barriers and facilitating the delivery of religious and regulatory guidance.
Digital transformation in serving the pilgrims
In line with the Kingdom's digital transformation, the General Authority for Hajj and Umrah has provided 15 modern technological services to enrich the Hajj experience. These services include the "Mabroor" smartphone application, 3D augmented reality (3D AR) technology offering interactive simulations of the rituals, and Near Field Communication (NFC) technology for quick access to information. Educational content will also be broadcast via Wi-Fi networks in areas frequented by pilgrims, and will be utilized on smart screens, interactive platforms, and maps. The digital content comprises more than 965 visual, audio, and written materials, fully translated into 15 languages.
Importance and impact on the Hajj experience
These initiatives are of paramount importance both domestically and internationally. Domestically, this plan highlights the integration among Saudi government entities to achieve the goals of Vision 2030, particularly with regard to the Guests of God Service Program, which aims to improve the quality of services provided to pilgrims. Internationally, providing advanced, multilingual guidance services enhances the Kingdom's positive image as a leader of the Islamic world and underscores its ability to manage one of the world's largest gatherings of people with high efficiency and professionalism, leaving a positive impression on the millions of pilgrims returning to their countries.
