In brief
At the sixth Hajj Conference in Jeddah, KSGAAL unveiled a pilgrimage‑specific language assessment test, a specialized textbook, and an updated terminology dictionary made with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. These resources aim to help pilgrims and service providers communicate better in Arabic and other languages.
KSGAAL announced on November 5 that it would launch three new projects at the sixth Hajj Conference and Exhibition in Jeddah, starting November 8. The academy will showcase the projects in a dedicated pavilion and highlight its partnership with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
The first initiative is a Hajj and Umrah language assessment test designed for pilgrimage‑related contexts. The test will help measure the language skills of pilgrims and service personnel who work in the mosque, stables, and other sites used during the journey.
The second project is the Arabic textbook titled Arabic for Hajj and Umrah, part of the Arabic for Specific Purposes series. The book is meant to develop practical speaking and reading skills that pilgrims need while traveling, staying, and worshipping in Mecca and Medina.
The third effort is an updated Hajj and Umrah terminology dictionary created in collaboration with the ministry. The new edition contains 488 Arabic entries, each translated into English, French, Persian, Turkish, Malay, and Urdu. In total it offers more than 3,400 multilingual terms covering all aspects of pilgrimage.
These resources are designed to standardize language use across pilgrim services, making signage, training, and digital tools clearer. By aligning terminology and testing competence, the academy expects a smoother experience for both visitors and providers.
The launch comes as the Hajj Conference gathers researchers, educators, and service providers from around the world, all seeking new ways to support the millions of people who travel to Saudi Arabia each year for Hajj and Umrah.
