Protection Robot: Smart technology in 97 languages to serve the pilgrims
In a pioneering move reflecting ongoing technological advancements, the Saudi Arabian healthcare system has deployed smart technologies to serve pilgrims by launching the "Wiqaia" robot. This innovative robot aims to provide medical guidance and health awareness services to pilgrims in more than 97 different languages. This initiative ensures that vital health messages reach the diverse nationalities and cultures performing Hajj, facilitating their understanding and accurate and easy application of the guidelines.
The historical development of health services in Hajj
Over the decades, medical care provided to pilgrims has witnessed tremendous development. Historically, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has placed great importance on the health of pilgrims since its founding, beginning with the establishment of small clinics and field health centers in the holy sites. As the number of pilgrims increased year after year, these services evolved to include integrated medical cities, mobile hospitals, and a fleet of ambulances equipped with the latest technologies. Today, the introduction of modern technologies such as artificial intelligence and smart robots represents a qualitative leap in this historical trajectory, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to harnessing the latest scientific advancements to ensure the safety of millions of pilgrims and provide a secure and healthy environment.
The local and international impact of employing a protective robot
The impact of using the Waqaya robot extends far beyond the local level within the Holy Sites, reaching a broad regional and international scale. Locally, the robot helps alleviate the burden on human medical personnel and reduces the incidence of illnesses associated with large gatherings, such as heat exhaustion and sunstroke, by providing proactive advice around the clock. Internationally, this initiative reinforces the Kingdom's position as a global leader in mass gathering medicine. Saudi Arabia's success in managing the health of millions of people within a limited geographical area and timeframe offers an inspiring model that other countries and global health organizations can utilize in organizing major events.
Locations of robot deployment and their alignment with Vision 2030
To ensure maximum benefit from this technology, the relevant authorities deployed the robots in key locations with high pilgrim traffic. These locations included the courtyards of the Prophet's Mosque and the Quba Mosque in Medina, as well as the Haramain High-Speed Railway station in Mecca and the Hajj terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
These integrated efforts are in line with the objectives of the “Health Sector Transformation Program” and the “Guests of God Service Program,” which are two of the main pillars stemming from the Kingdom’s Vision 2030. These programs aim to improve the quality of health services provided and facilitate the performance of rituals with peace of mind, with a focus on innovation and rapid response.
Essential tasks and guidelines for protecting pilgrims
The robot provides comprehensive educational and guidance content focused on preventing common health risks during Hajj. Among its key tasks are educating pilgrims on how to prevent heat exhaustion and injuries, as well as offering general guidelines for maintaining personal hygiene and public health. The robot's ability to speak 97 languages overcomes the language barrier that posed a significant challenge in the past, ensuring that accurate medical information reaches every pilgrim in their native tongue.
