Riyadh is preparing to host The Catalyst AI Hackathon 2026 from October 29 to 31, 2026, as the first stage of The Catalyst program launched by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA).
The three-day, in-person hackathon aims to accelerate the development of artificial intelligence solutions by bringing together developers, data specialists, entrepreneurs, and early-stage technology teams.
Approximately 100 participants across more than 26 teams are expected to take part in the event, working to develop stronger prototypes and demonstrate the technical and commercial feasibility of their ideas.
Three Days of Intensive AI Development
The hackathon will feature a structured program combining teamwork, hands-on development, specialized workshops, and individual mentoring sessions.
On the first day, participants will form teams, deliver short presentations of their ideas, and begin developing their projects.
The second day will focus on intensive prototype development, supported by workshops and one-on-one mentoring designed to help teams overcome technical challenges and refine their solutions.
The final day will be dedicated to completing prototypes and presenting them to a judging panel for evaluation.
A Pathway to The Catalyst AI Accelerator
The hackathon represents the initial stage of The Catalyst program, providing participants with an opportunity to test their ideas and transform them into more advanced prototypes.
Outstanding teams will have the opportunity to advance to a qualifying pathway leading to The Catalyst AI Accelerator.
This progression is designed to help promising projects strengthen their technical capabilities, refine their business models, and prepare for further development.
Open to Developers, AI Specialists, and Startups
The hackathon targets technical teams, data scientists, AI professionals, early-stage startup founders, and innovators with advanced technology ideas.
Participants may apply individually or as teams, and a commercial registration is not required.
Individuals who apply independently will have an opportunity to form or join teams during the opening day.
A key participation requirement is that artificial intelligence must be central to the proposed solution, rather than serving as a secondary feature.
Supporting Saudi Arabia's AI Innovation Ecosystem
The Catalyst AI Hackathon contributes to Saudi Arabia's growing artificial intelligence ecosystem by connecting technical talent with mentorship, practical development opportunities, and potential accelerator pathways.
Through its focus on prototype development and feasibility validation, the initiative encourages innovators to transform promising AI concepts into practical solutions.
The program also supports broader national efforts to advance digital innovation, entrepreneurship, and the development of emerging technology capabilities.