Abha, 1 Muharram 1447H, corresponding to 26 June 2025. Asir Region Mayor Eng. Abdullah Al-Jaly announced that Abha has advanced to the final stage of the 2025 Bloomberg Philanthropies Mayors Challenge, after being chosen from among more than 630 cities representing 99 countries to rank among the top 50 cities globally in urban innovation.

The achievement marks a major leap for Abha, reflecting the efficiency of the municipal sector in adopting creative solutions and modern technologies to improve quality of life in cities, in line with Saudi Vision 2030's aim of enabling Saudi cities to achieve excellence on the world stage.

Details of the Challenge's Advanced Stage

Finalist cities, including Abha, will receive:

  • A $50,000 grant.
  • Advanced technical support to develop a prototype of the proposed project.
  • A chance to take part in the international "Ideas Camp," set for next July, where teams will receive direct mentoring from leading global urban-innovation experts.

In January 2026, the 25 final winning cities will be announced, each of which will receive:

  • A grand prize of $1 million.
  • Operational support to implement its innovative project on the ground.

Abha's Innovation Portfolio

Al-Jaly said Abha's entry focuses on improving urban quality of life through digital transformation tools, artificial intelligence technologies and environmental sustainability, to create resilient, human-centered smart cities that support economic and social growth.

This achievement comes as Abha undergoes notable growth in urban infrastructure and flourishing tourism and cultural sectors, boosting the proposed project's chances of success in a fertile environment for creativity and sustainable urban development.

About the Bloomberg Challenge

The Mayors Challenge is an annual international program that empowers cities to design and implement innovative solutions to urban challenges such as climate change, public health, social justice and digital transformation. More than 700 cities worldwide have taken part since it began.