Saudi Arabia will use a mobile application to facilitate visitors’ pilgrimage to Mecca during the holy month of Ramzan, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah said…reports Asian Lite News
Travellers observing Umrah, a form of pilgrimage to Mecca, can book their Umrah ritual via the application Eatmarna and enjoy a smoother and safer experience, the ministry said on Tuesday.
Eatmarna, which translates to “let’s perform Umrah,” was originally developed to manage visits during the Covid-19 pandemic when social distancing regulations were in place, Xinhua news agency reported.
The application’s success in ensuring equal access for all worshippers and providing a seamless experience has led the ministry to continue its use after the lifting of restrictions.
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In March, Saudi Arabia announced removing all Covid-related travel restrictions. Travellers no longer need to provide PCR tests or proof of vaccination to enter the country. Institutional quarantine requirements have also been removed.
Meanwhile, the General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Holy Mosque and the Prophet’s Holy Mosque provides a healthy and safe environment that helps worshippers to perform their rituals, the Saudi Press Agency reported.
The entire Grand Holy Mosque is disinfected, sterilised 10 times per day with the participation of more than 4,000 workers. The Presidency uses 130,000 liters of disinfectants and approximately 35,000 liters of steriliztion products to sterilize all surfaces and carpets. Additionally, the Grand Holy Mosque was furnished with 25,000 carpets, it was reported.
As many as 11 smart robots are also used to sterilise the Grand Holy Mosque.
The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Grand Holy Mosque and the Prophet’s Holy Mosque seeks to harness artificial intelligence and interactive screens to serve the worshipers and Umrah performers, the report added.