Free phone line for answering legal inquiries in 10 languages
In a significant step aimed at enhancing services provided to pilgrims, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, represented by the General Secretariat for Islamic Awareness in Hajj, Umrah and Visitation, announced the activation of a free telephone service dedicated to answering religious inquiries. This initiative, which includes the participation of a select group of the Ministry's preachers and is supported by an advanced automated response system, is part of the second phase of the Islamic awareness plan for the current Umrah season of 1447 AH.
The new service allows pilgrims and visitors to contact the system via the toll-free number (8002451000). The system provides automated response in ten major international languages, including Arabic, English, French, Urdu, Indonesian, Filipino, Hausa, Bengali, and Hindi, among others. This linguistic diversity aims to break down language barriers and enable pilgrims of all nationalities to easily obtain accurate religious rulings.
Digital transformation and keeping pace with Vision 2030
This initiative comes within a broader strategic framework aligned with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, specifically the Guests of God Service Program, which seeks to leverage the latest digital technologies and artificial intelligence to facilitate the Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages. The shift from traditional awareness campaigns to the use of advanced communication systems and automated responses represents a qualitative leap in the management of religious services, ensuring rapid response times and accurate information for millions of visitors simultaneously.
The importance of the service and its regional and international impact
This project is of paramount importance given the vast cultural and linguistic diversity of visitors to the Two Holy Mosques. By providing religious rulings and guidance in the pilgrims' native languages, the Ministry contributes to correcting misconceptions and clarifying the rituals of Umrah according to the correct methodology, thus reducing violations of Islamic law resulting from ignorance or misunderstanding. This effort also reflects the leading role of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in serving the Muslim world and attending to the religious affairs of Muslims across the globe.
Work mechanism and advocacy efforts
The ministry explained that the service operates on two integrated systems: the first is an automated response system available in multiple languages, and the second is direct contact with qualified preachers and scholars, with remote call reception available 24/7. These efforts are particularly intensified during peak seasons such as Ramadan and Hajj to ensure that all inquiries are addressed.
Through this integrated system, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs is committed to educating pilgrims on how to perform the rituals according to the guidance of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Prophet, emphasizing the tolerance and ease of Islam in worship and transactions. The Ministry adheres to a moderate and balanced approach in its responses, in accordance with the directives of the wise leadership, which spares no effort in dedicating all human and material resources to serving those visiting the Sacred House of God.
