Riyadh is preparing to host the SAIF 2026 Global Security and Technology Competition and Exhibition from November 24 to 26, 2026, organized by Tuwaiq Academy, with the Saudi Ministry of Education serving as a strategic partner.
Held as part of the Global Security and Technology Summit, the event will bring together innovators, researchers, developers, entrepreneurs and technology specialists from around the world to develop solutions addressing real-world challenges.
The competition will offer a total prize pool of up to SAR 5 million, encouraging participants to create innovative, practical and high-impact technological solutions.
14 Technology Fields Driving Innovation
SAIF 2026 will feature 14 technology fields, covering emerging technologies and their applications across multiple industries.
Key areas include artificial intelligence and data science, cybersecurity and defense technologies, smart cities and the Internet of Things, robotics and automation, aerospace and drones, and quantum technologies and advanced computing.
The competition is open to school and university students, developers, researchers, entrepreneurs and innovators from around the world.
Participants may compete individually or as teams, subject to the official eligibility requirements.
Technology Exhibition and Partnership Opportunities
Alongside the competition, a specialized exhibition will provide a platform for participants to showcase their projects, technologies and innovative solutions.
The exhibition aims to connect innovators with organizations and industry specialists, encouraging collaboration, knowledge exchange and potential partnerships.
Judging Criteria and SAR 5 Million Prize Pool
Submitted projects will be evaluated by a judging panel based on several criteria, including innovation, solution feasibility, expected impact, practical implementation and technical excellence.
The total prize pool will reach up to SAR 5 million, although the detailed allocation of prizes across categories and winning positions has not yet been announced.
Registration and Participation
Participation in SAIF 2026 is free of charge, subject to meeting the published registration requirements.
The three-day, in-person competition and exhibition will take place at Tuwaiq Academy in Riyadh.
Interested participants can access registration information through the official event website.
