For the first time in the UAE, Friday sermons (khutbahs) at a mosque in Sharjah will be translated into 40 languages through a mobile application. The Al Maghfirah Mosque in Al Seef, one of the largest mosques in the emirate, will provide live and text-based translations via an app called "Minbar".
Enhancing Accessibility for Non-Arabic Speakers
The initiative, launched by the Department of Islamic Affairs in Sharjah, aims to broaden the reach of Friday sermons, ensuring that non-Arabic speakers can fully understand the message delivered each week.
The move is also part of the UAE’s efforts to integrate artificial intelligence technologies into government services, enhancing accessibility for residents of diverse backgrounds.
How the Minbar App Works
The Minbar application, available for free on the App Store and Google Play, offers:
- Instant translation of sermons in 40 languages, including English, French, Urdu, and Pashto.
- Audio and text-based translations, allowing users to listen live or read the sermon.
- Downloadable sermons for future reference.
Promoting Community Engagement and Religious Understanding
The Department of Islamic Affairs highlighted that this initiative represents a major step in strengthening community connections and promoting Islamic values.
"This initiative ensures that all members of society can benefit from Friday sermons, regardless of their language differences," the department stated.
With Sharjah’s diverse expatriate population, this translation service is expected to enhance engagement and help worshippers gain a deeper understanding of religious teachings.
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