The National Information Technology Board created a mobile app to allow pilgrims to register for the Hajj by SMS.
ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunications has quickly created a smartphone app to help pilgrims, which has digitalized Hajj processes for travelers.
Last month, the Ministry of Religious Affairs launched registration for the government-sponsored Hajj 2024, which is scheduled to take place in mid-June of the following year. The application period for the pilgrimage will remain open until December 22.
The National Information Technology Board (NITB) mobile app was jointly launched today by caretaker Minister for IT Dr. Umar Saif and interim Minister for Religious Affairs Aneeq Ahmed, according to a statement from the information ministry.
During the welcoming speech, NITB Chief Executive Officer Babar Majeed Bhatti gave a briefing to the attendees regarding the application.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Saif, the Minister of Information Technology, claimed that the Special Investment Facilitation Council’s (SIFC) directives had sped up the nation’s digitization process.
In this regard, he noted, the Haj app’s release represented a turning point.
Dr. Saif outlined the main characteristics of the app, pointing out that it will allow pilgrims to register using the OTP they got via SMS.
According to him, each user will receive a unique ID that consists of their application number and CNIC.
According to him, pilgrims have the ability to access and modify their personal data, which includes contact and identity details.
According to him, pilgrims would be able to view real-time updates of their Haj application status, such as those submitted, successful, unsuccessful, or refunded.
According to him, the application would include data gathered from the application form, such as the applicant’s bank account details, Haj dues, nominee information, personal information, group information, Mehram information, assistant information, and extra facilities.
Dr. Saif went on to say that pilgrims can obtain details about their Haj group, including the personal information of group members.
Pilgrims will be able to access their Haj training schedules, complete with dates, times, and locations, using the program.
Additionally, it will show information on accommodations in Makah and Madina, such as sector, building, and room details, as well as travel specifics, such as flight numbers, departure cities, dates, and times for both the outbound and return flights.
It will also give details regarding the location of the Maktab (camp).
Pilgrims will be able to utilize this application to track the progress of their Haj payments and refunds.
Additionally, pilgrims have the ability to track and effectively handle their general inquiries, complaints, and requests.
Because the application is bilingual, pilgrims can easily switch to and use it in their preferred language.
Although there is room for more languages to be added, only two—English and Urdu—have been introduced thus far.
According to Dr. Saif, pilgrims can select the shortest route to their destination by using the offline maps feature of the app.
Users of the app can share their location as well.
This application allows for the addition of multiple destinations.
Speaking at the event, Minister of Religious Affairs Ahmed praised the work of the Ministry of IT and NITB and stated that modernizing the current system for Haj activities and incorporating technology into daily life was imperative.
The Haj app is the appropriate response; it will also assist in understanding the pilgrims’ genuine emotions.
He said that this program will digitize the Haj of 2024, allowing pilgrims to take part in every step of the process online, from applying to paying for the Haj to leaving for home.
Ahmed went on to say that the app will function as a centralized platform that integrates easily with the mechanisms currently in place at the Ministry.
Its main goals are to improve Haj pilgrims’ experience by making important information and services easily accessible, streamlining ministry-to-minister communication, and guaranteeing real-time data synchronization.
For pilgrims and those applying for the Haj, this mobile app will act as a one-stop shop, giving them quick access to all pertinent data and services.