Post by : Mariam
Al-Faris
At the 38th Moscow International Book Fair, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance of Saudi Arabia offered a unique and modern virtual-reality (VR) experience. Visitors at the fair had the chance to explore the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah in an immersive digital format. This initiative aimed to combine modern technology with religious heritage to provide a meaningful experience for visitors and Muslims worldwide.
Exploring The Prophet’s Mosque Virtually
Using VR headsets, visitors could navigate through the halls of the Prophet's Mosque and explore its most sacred areas. One of the highlights of the tour was the Al-Rawdah Al-Sharifa, a highly revered section of the mosque. The experience allowed visitors to feel as if they were physically present, moving through the mosque and its surrounding landmarks. Many attendees shared that this immersive experience left a deep and lasting impression on them.
Visitor Reactions And Praise
The virtual tour received wide appreciation from visitors at the fair. Many expressed admiration for Saudi Arabia’s efforts to use the latest technology to serve Islam and Muslims. Attendees praised the Kingdom for highlighting the significance of the Two Holy Mosques while making their landmarks accessible in a modern and innovative way. This approach bridges tradition with modern technology, allowing people worldwide to connect with Islamic heritage without physically traveling.
Introduction Of Innovative Apps
Alongside the virtual tour, the ministry also showcased several electronic applications designed to serve pilgrims and Muslims. Among these was a multilingual virtual Hajj and Umrah app, which helps users understand and follow pilgrimage rituals digitally. Another app introduced was “Rushd,” which provides a digital version of the Holy Quran. These applications make Islamic knowledge and guidance more accessible to people globally, supporting both education and religious practice.
Aligning With Saudi Vision 2030
This VR project and the associated digital applications reflect the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to develop and improve services in various sectors, including religion, technology, and tourism. By integrating modern technology into religious services, the Kingdom is enhancing the quality of experiences for pilgrims and visitors. The VR tour and apps demonstrate how technology can be effectively used to preserve heritage while providing innovative access to religious sites.
Significance Of The Initiative
The Ministry’s virtual reality exhibit not only showcases technology but also highlights the Kingdom's dedication to serving the Two Holy Mosques. Providing virtual access allows Muslims and other visitors worldwide to engage with sacred landmarks even if they cannot travel to Saudi Arabia. This initiative also serves as an educational tool, helping people understand Islamic heritage in a more interactive and engaging way.
Broader Impact On Pilgrims And Visitors
The VR experience and applications benefit not only those attending the book fair but also future pilgrims and Muslims globally. Users of the apps can prepare for Hajj and Umrah digitally, learning the correct rituals and procedures. Similarly, the digital Quran app provides easy access to the Holy Quran in multiple languages. These tools help strengthen religious understanding, enhance learning, and improve the overall experience of users worldwide.
Technology Serving Religion
This initiative demonstrates that modern technology can complement religious practice and education. The VR tour, combined with digital apps, shows how Saudi Arabia is leading in integrating technology with Islamic services. It sets an example for other countries on how to use innovation to preserve heritage and make religious practices more accessible, especially in a world where travel may not always be possible.
Global Recognition And Inspiration
The VR exhibit at the Moscow International Book Fair attracted attention from visitors of different nationalities and backgrounds. Many expressed their hope that similar initiatives would be implemented globally. By using technology in innovative ways, Saudi Arabia not only preserves the heritage of the Prophet’s Mosque but also inspires other countries to leverage modern tools for cultural and religious education.
Commitment To Excellence In Services
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance continues to show a strong commitment to improving services for pilgrims and visitors. This VR project is part of a larger effort to use innovative solutions to enhance experiences at the Two Holy Mosques. By combining immersive technology with educational apps, the ministry ensures that users can benefit from modern tools while maintaining respect and reverence for Islamic traditions.
Future Plans And Expansion
Following the success of the VR tour and applications, the ministry plans to continue expanding its digital services. Future initiatives may include virtual tours of other sacred sites, interactive educational programs, and additional multilingual apps for global users. These efforts aim to make Islamic knowledge and religious experiences accessible to all, strengthening the Kingdom’s role as a global leader in modern religious services.
Saudi Arabia’s VR initiative at the 38th Moscow International Book Fair exemplifies how technology can enhance religious understanding and preserve cultural heritage. By offering immersive tours of the Prophet’s Mosque and innovative digital apps for Hajj, Umrah, and the Quran, the Kingdom combines tradition with modernity. This approach aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, promotes global accessibility to Islamic services, and reinforces the country’s dedication to serving Muslims worldwide.
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