Technology is set to be at the forefront of Hajj this year with authorities in Saudi Arabia going all out to ensure the maximum safety measures are in place for the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to reports, robots will provide pilgrims with directions and advice on places of pilgrimage, and the movement of pilgrims will be linked to the computer. Timings for all Hajj rites will be set accurately for every pilgrim from the time of their arrival in the Kingdom to the time of their departure.

Safety measures will be ramped up for the pilgrimage, which will only be open to immunised people this year. Surveillance has also been strengthened for computers to watch over travellers till they return to their respective countries.

The Ministry of Hajj has already announced smart technology to facilitate Hajj rites. These include a Hajj smart card system which will enlist all the approved Hajj pilgrims and link them to services and amenities, including access to camps, transport, hotels, cashless payment terminals and ATMs, and identify crowded spots at the holy sites in Makkah Mukarramah and Madinah Munawwarah.

The Hajj smart card is encrypted with a QR code that enables pilgrims to download the app on their smartphones. It contains every pilgrim’s information, including medical and residential details, and provides access to facilities and camps.

The card uses near-field communication technology, which makes it readable by kiosks to identify crowded spots throughout the holy sites and help guide lost pilgrims.

Darul Ihsan Media Desk