Saudi Arabia Introduces AI-Powered Fatwa Robot to Elevate Visiting Experience at Mecca’s Grand Mosque

Published on March 9, 2025

Saudi Arabia unveils an AI-powered Fatwa Robot in Mecca’s Grand Mosque, enhancing religious guidance and boosting the visiting experience for worshippers.

A cutting-edge AI-powered robot has been deployed at the Grand Mosque in Mecca, Islam’s most sacred site, to assist worshippers by providing religious guidance in multiple languages.

Abdulrahman Al Sudais, the Chief of the Presidency of Religious Affairs at the Two Holy Mosques, officially unveiled the “Manara (Beacon) Robot” as part of Saudi Arabia’s ongoing digital transformation efforts. The initiative aims to enhance the pilgrimage experience by integrating advanced technology to support millions of visitors.

To accommodate the influx of worshippers during the holy month of Ramadan, the presidency has expanded designated areas within the Two Holy Mosques where religious queries are addressed. This ensures that pilgrims can seek guidance seamlessly while engaging in their spiritual journey.

The design of the robot reflects intricate Islamic motifs, inspired by the architectural elegance of the Two Holy Mosques. Over the years, the method of answering religious queries at these sacred sites has evolved. Traditionally, scholars delivered fatwas (religious edicts) in person, a practice that later shifted to telephone consultations and online services. Today, AI-driven robots provide instant responses, further modernizing access to religious guidance.

This initiative is part of broader efforts by Saudi authorities to leverage artificial intelligence in facilitating worshippers’ needs. Alongside the Manara Robot, other smart guidance robots have been introduced to assist pilgrims in multiple languages throughout Ramadan.

The Islamic lunar month, which commenced on March 1 this year, is the peak season for Umrah (the minor pilgrimage), drawing millions of visitors to the Grand Mosque. With the integration of AI-powered solutions, Saudi Arabia continues to enhance the spiritual and logistical experience for pilgrims from around the world.