In a significant step reflecting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies to serve the Holy Quran, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance announced the deployment of AI-powered smart robots to assist participants and visitors at the 25th King Salman Local Competition for Memorization, Recitation and Interpretation of the Holy Quran. This initiative, undertaken under the directives of His Excellency the Minister, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, underscores the Kingdom's dedication to leveraging modern technology to enrich the contestants' experience and facilitate their access to information.
Advanced tasks and interactive experience
Smart robots act as integrated, interactive guides within the competition venues, providing a wide range of services to the 129 participants. These services include comprehensive information about the six competition categories, competition schedules, the names of the judging panels, and details of the prizes, which total four million Saudi Riyals. To enhance accessibility, the robots are equipped with the ability to send this information directly to the participants' phones via WhatsApp, ensuring immediate and accurate updates.
Background of the competition and its historical significance
The King Salman Competition for Memorizing the Holy Quran is one of the most prominent and important religious competitions at the national level in the Kingdom. Since its inception more than two decades ago, it has enjoyed the generous patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud – may God protect him – and has effectively contributed to encouraging young people of both genders to memorize the Holy Quran and reflect upon its meanings, becoming a beacon of knowledge dedicated to serving the Book of God and its memorizers. Its annual organization affirms the Kingdom's leading role in caring for the Holy Quran and its sciences, both locally and internationally.
Keeping pace with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and its future impact
The integration of artificial intelligence technologies into the organization of this important religious event is not merely a logistical upgrade, but a practical application of the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. This approach reflects the Ministry's commitment to innovation and digital transformation across all its operations, presenting a progressive and enlightened image of the Kingdom that balances its adherence to its deeply rooted Islamic values with its pursuit of technological leadership. This initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the organization of other religious and cultural events in the future, setting a new standard for quality and efficiency.
International dimensions and multiple languages
One of the most notable features of these robots is their exceptional ability to communicate in over 95 languages, breaking down language barriers and making it easier for participants and visitors of various nationalities – in similar international competitions – to understand and interact with the competition's details. This global dimension enhances the competition's prestige and highlights the Kingdom's efforts in serving Islam and Muslims worldwide in a modern and innovative way.
