Saudi Arabia has introduced health robots in the central area around the Prophet Mohammad’s Mosque in Medina, marking a significant leap in its technological advancements. The deployment, announced on June 9, 2024, is part of the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 initiative aimed at modernizing various sectors through artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics.
The health robots, developed by Ab Robots, serve multiple purposes. They provide directions and educational messages to pilgrims in Medina and are capable of communicating in Arabic and ten other languages. This multilingual capability is crucial for catering to the diverse international audience that visits Saudi Arabia’s holy sites. Besides Medina, these intelligent agents are also stationed at key locations such as Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Haramain Train Station, and several prominent mosques.
Saudi Arabia’s ambitious technological strides include the deployment of digital employees in Mecca, where robots assist pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah by offering guidance and information in 11 languages. This initiative is complemented by the introduction of the country’s first humanoid robots, Sara and Mohammad, developed by QSS AI & Robots. Sara can interact in Arabic and perform local dances, blending cutting-edge AI capabilities with cultural traditions.
These advancements underscore Saudi Arabia’s strategic focus on AI as a solution to its economic and demographic challenges. The Kingdom’s commitment to AI is recognized globally, with the latest Stanford University International AI Index ranking it among the leading nations for developing a national AI strategy. This initiative not only modernizes the pilgrimage experience but also showcases Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation and technological leadership on the global stage.
Key Highlights:
- Launch Date and Location: Saudi Arabia launched health robots in Medina on June 9, 2024, focusing on the central area around the Prophet Mohammad’s Mosque.
- Purpose and Functionality: Developed by Ab Robots, these intelligent agents provide directions and educational messages to pilgrims and communicate in Arabic and ten other languages.
- Deployment Locations: Besides Medina, robots are also placed at Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport, Haramain Train Station, and several prominent mosques.
- Wider Use in Mecca: Similar robots assist pilgrims during Hajj and Umrah in Mecca, offering guidance in 11 languages at the Grand Mosque.
- Humanoid Robots Introduction: Saudi Arabia introduced its first humanoid robots, Sara and Mohammad, developed by QSS AI & Robots, embodying AI capabilities with cultural traditions.
- Vision 2030 Goals: These initiatives align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to modernize various sectors, enhance customer experiences, and promote technological advancements.
- Global Recognition: Saudi Arabia is recognized among the leading nations for developing a national AI strategy, as highlighted by the Stanford University International AI Index for 2024.
Reference:
https://www.intellinews.com/saudi-arabia-launches-health-robots-in-medina-for-pilgrims-328953/
