Saudi SDAIA launches NEOM innovation challenge

RIYADH — Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA) has announced launching the "NEOM Challenge", which is one of the tracks of this year’s Global Artificial Intelligence Summit (GAIS) to be held on Oct. 7-8 under the patronage of Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman.

This challenge, which is part of SDAAIA’s efforts to launch the full value of data as national wealth, aims to find pioneering innovative solutions to overcome a number of challenges in "NEOM" city.

In fulfillment of the aspirations of the Saudi Vision 2030 and global leadership in the fields of data and artificial intelligence, the "NEOM Challenge" aims to increase AI awareness, promote and encourage innovation, and build national capabilities.

The number of participants in the challenge exceeded 400 male and female students of various university levels, from 39 universities around the Kingdom.

The "NEOM Challenge" covers three vital areas: energy, entertainment, and transportation. These areas can be developed by strengthening them with innovations that contribute to creating a sustainable environment within the city of NEOM.

NEOM is expected to have the world’s largest renewable energy plant, through an integrated renewable energy generation system.

NEOM is expected to be known as a world leader in providing entertainment for all segments of society.

The challenge also focuses in the field of transportation, because of its importance in creating a smooth and sustainable system of mobility at the highest level by creating integrated solutions.

The challenge offers prizes worth more than SR500,000 and participants will be judged by a committee having representatives from the Ministry of Education, SDAIA, and NEOM.

It is noteworthy that the "NEOM Challenge" will be launched virtually and will be broadcast live.