Being one of the five core pillars of Islam, performing hajj is one of the most overwhelming, yet spiritually beautiful, experiences that requires both devotion and commitment all throughout.
With so many things to do in so little time, one Islamic scholar wants to make the entire hajj experience as easy as possible with technology.
Mohammad Najeeb Qasmi recently launched Hajj e-Mabroor, an Islamic mobile app, that tells you everything you need to know about the hajj: the do's and don'ts. It offers historical and spiritual background on different features of the hajj. It even personalizes your journey by tracking your progress through the trying, yet wonderful, trip.
The app can be installed on both iOS and Android devices, dismissing the need to physically carry books on hajj and umrah. All you really need is your mobile phone.
The app aims to be the go-to source for all pilgrims, acting as both a library and guide altogether. The app is basically a library of books, lectures and articles aimed to guide pilgrims from start to finish.
Although this isn't the first Islamic app to be launched, as Hajjnet launched its' Salam App in 2014, this is the first app that provides a holistic approach to pilgrims looking to perform hajj.
It's not just mobile apps that are looking to make the entire hajj experience tech-driven.
In July, Saudi Arabia announced its plans to introduce electronic identification bracelets in an effort to increase safety measures, following the stampede that killed thousands in 2015.