As part of the comprehensive digital transformation underway in Saudi Arabia to achieve the goals of Vision 2030, several technological initiatives have emerged to enhance the experience of pilgrims and facilitate their spiritual journey. The "Digital Guide" stands out as one of the most prominent of these innovative solutions, providing an interactive guide that accompanies pilgrims step-by-step in performing the rituals with ease and convenience, thus enhancing the spirituality of the experience and reducing logistical burdens.
General context: From traditional guide to digital guidance
Historically, the role of the "mutawwif" (guide) was vital in guiding pilgrims performing Hajj and Umrah, providing them with the necessary knowledge to perform the rituals correctly. With the increasing number of pilgrims annually and their diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, the need arose for more advanced and comprehensive solutions. In response, relevant authorities in the Kingdom launched smart platforms and applications such as "Nusk" and the "Digital Mutawwif" service, which fall under the "Serving the Guests of God" program, one of the Kingdom's key Vision 2030 initiatives. These tools aim to empower pilgrims to be self-reliant, providing accurate and reliable guidance in multiple languages, available 24/7 via their smartphones.
How to use the digital guide to perform Umrah: A detailed guide
The digital guide offers a seamless user experience starting from the moment the pilgrim arrives at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. To fully benefit from this service, you can follow these steps:
- Starting the service and preparation: Upon opening the app, select “Start Service” to review its details, then choose your preferred language from the available options. After that, tap “Start Umrah” to begin your journey. The app provides a dedicated section on “Umrah rituals” that you can review beforehand to familiarize yourself with all the steps.
- Circumambulating the Kaaba: Your journey begins with performing the Tawaf ritual. The app provides audio guidance for the supplications recited during each circuit, along with a "circumambulation counter" tool to help you accurately track the number of circuits you have completed, eliminating any doubt or confusion. The app also displays maps showing designated Tawaf areas within the Haram to help you avoid crowds.
- Two Rak'ahs and Sa'i: After completing Tawaf, the app guides you to the ritual of praying two rak'ahs behind the Station of Ibrahim, showing you the locations of available prayer areas. Then, you proceed to the ritual of Sa'i between Safa and Marwa, where interactive features continue to support you, including audio supplications, a counter for the number of Sa'i rounds, and location information for the Sa'i area.
- Removing the Ihram: Upon completing the Sa'i, you reach the final ritual, which is removing the Ihram. The app provides the necessary instructions to complete this step correctly. Once all the rituals are completed, a congratulatory message will appear, signifying the completion of your Umrah.
Importance and impact: Enhancing the spiritual experience of pilgrims
The importance of the digital pilgrimage guide lies in its ability to empower millions of Muslims, especially non-Arabic speakers or first-time pilgrims, to perform their rituals with confidence and peace of mind. It reduces the likelihood of errors, saves pilgrims time, and allows them to focus more on the spiritual aspect of worship rather than worrying about procedures. On a broader level, these technologies contribute to better crowd management and improved service delivery at the Two Holy Mosques, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to providing the highest quality services to the guests of God.
Integrated services during the holy month of Ramadan
Digital transformation extends beyond simply guiding pilgrims; it encompasses the organization of all services provided. Recently, the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques announced the commencement of applications for permits to provide meals for those breaking their fast during the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH. Applications are submitted entirely electronically through the national platform for charitable work, "Ihsan," ensuring transparency and good governance. This facilitates participation for individuals and non-profit organizations in this noble charitable endeavor, underscoring the comprehensive vision for serving pilgrims using the latest technological advancements.
