"AYAT" headset debut highlights opening of GITEX 2006

Called AYAT, the fully integrated, wireless headset contains the complete text of the Islamic faith's most sacred book as read by Sheikh Mohamed Ayoub, Imam of the Honourable Mosque of the Prophet in Medina.

Developed by Interactive Audio Education (IAE), a Dubai-based company, Ayat is a specially programmed audio player that allows users to memorize the Holy Quran while performing the daily prayer; finish the Holy Quran in Taraweeh and Night Prayer; and listen to the Holy Quran anytime, anywhere.

"We have done extensive research and testing to develop Ayat and are proud to have produced a device that have a far-reaching impact not only in the way that the Quran is memorized, but in the practice of the Islamic faith," said Mohamed Sherif Danish, Founder, IAE.

Before Ayat, most Muslims have memorized only a small set of short Quran Chapters (Suras) which they recite repeatedly during their daily prayers. These Chapters are usually from the last part of the Quran, Part 30 (Juz' Amma). With the new device, the Holy Quran can now be memorized while users pray.

"AYAT guides users through the prayer process and reads different verses at each prayer, starting from the beginning of the Holy book or any chapter selected by the user. According to multiple tests performed by IAE, repeating the same verses at each of the five daily prayers for about a week allows users to memorize these verses. While memorizing the verses, the devotee also focuses on appreciating the significance and full meaning of the prayer, thus enhancing one's experience of Islam," added Danish.

AYAT uses interactive audio menus to help users select between different options, and gives users the flexibility to select specific chapters or parts. AYAT can also be pre-programmed to read Al Fateha and Al Tashahud along with the users, or set up to let them read - by themselves during silence periods.

Danish also proudly announced that the Ayat is certified by Al Azhar Al Sharif and that it is approved for use in prayer by Dar Al Ifta of Egypt. "Ayat will also help lessen the mistakes in the number of rakaa devotees perform, as well as enable users to recite the Quran with the proper pronunciation," Danish continued.

Because a majority of the more than 1 billion Muslims are in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, Ayat is expected to make a big splash in GITEX. The breakthrough product is the first in a series of hi-tech education devices that IAE plans to produce.