• Moumi Mousumi
• 23 Apr, 2025

Saudi Arabia’s vibrant start-up scene is getting a global spotlight.! A UN tourism official in Riyadh is inviting local entrepreneurs to join a thrilling competition that celebrates artificial intelligence (AI) in travel. This initiative aims to transform how we explore the world, making tourism smarter, greener and more exciting all while aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.

Details & Context
The Global Artificial Intelligence Challenge, hosted by UN Tourism is open until Friday, urging Saudi start-ups to showcase their AI-powered ideas for the travel industry. Held in Riyadh, the competition seeks to discover companies that use AI to enhance traveller experiences and promote sustainability. From hyper-personalised trip planning to eco-friendly innovations, the challenge is a game-changer for tourism’s future.

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Riyadh, a hub of innovation in the Middle East is the perfect backdrop for this event. The UN Tourism Regional Office for the Middle East, led by director Samer Al-Kharashi is driving this effort to put Saudi start-ups on the global map. The competition aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 which emphasises digital transformation and economic growth through technology. By focusing on AI the challenge taps into the Kingdom’s ambition to lead in smart tourism solutions.

The competition is open to entrepreneurs who integrate AI into their tourism businesses. Whether it’s creating seamless travel apps or eco-conscious tools, start-ups have a chance to shine. Finalists will pitch their ideas at the UN Tourism Demo Day, gain mentorship and join an acceleration program at SPARK, a top innovation hub. Winners also get access to over 90 venture capitalists and global networks across 150+ countries, opening doors to funding and partnerships.

Quotes

·      Samer Al-Kharashi, director of the UN Tourism Regional Office for the Middle East, shared his excitement: “AI is changing the way we travel and explore. This competition is a golden opportunity for Saudi start-ups to lead the charge in creating smarter, more sustainable tourism experiences.” He added, “Saudi Arabia’s focus on digital innovation through Vision 2030 makes it the perfect place to nurture young AI talent and shape the future of global tourism.”

·      On the region’s role, Al-Kharashi said: “The Middle East is bursting with creativity. We’re committed to supporting local entrepreneurs and building bridges with global innovators to make tourism more resilient and exciting.”

Additional Information
AI is already making waves in Saudi tourism. For example, NEOM, the futuristic city project, uses the Arena OneBrain system to craft personalised travel experiences. This AI combines real-time data and human behaviour models to tailor trips to each traveller’s preferences, from choosing destinations to planning activities. Similarly, Red Sea Global has introduced an AI-powered beach-cleaning robot that detects tiny debris, ensuring pristine environments for tourists. These innovations highlight Saudi Arabia’s leadership in blending technology with tourism.

The competition also offers more than just recognition. Start-ups reaching the final stages will connect with industry leaders, mentors and investors through Plug and Play, a global innovation platform. This support could lead to pilot projects, funding and opportunities to scale their ideas worldwide. The focus on sustainability ensures that AI solutions not only enhance travel but also protect the environment, aligning with global trends toward responsible tourism.

Saudi Arabia’s young, tech-savvy population is a driving force behind this initiative. With Vision 2030 encouraging entrepreneurship, the Kingdom is fostering a culture of innovation. The UN competition is a chance for young AI enthusiasts to contribute to this vision, creating solutions that could redefine how the world travels.

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Impact Analysis
The UN AI Challenge is a big win for Saudi Arabia’s start-up ecosystem. By spotlighting local talent, it positions the Kingdom as a global leader in AI-driven tourism. The competition could attract international attention, boosting Saudi Arabia’s reputation as a hub for innovation. For start-ups, the exposure to mentors and investors could lead to significant growth, potentially creating jobs and driving economic progress.

On a global scale, the challenge promotes sustainable tourism, a critical issue as the travel industry grapples with environmental challenges. AI solutions like beach-cleaning robots or personalised travel planners reduce waste and improve efficiency, setting a standard for other countries. The Middle East, often seen as a cultural and historical destination, could become a tech powerhouse, thanks to initiatives like this.

For readers and travellers, the impact is personal. AI innovations mean better trip planning, greener destinations, and seamless experiences. For example, a family visiting Jeddah could use an AI app to customise their itinerary, while eco-friendly tools ensure the beaches they visit stay clean. This competition could inspire similar efforts worldwide, making travel smarter and more sustainable.

The alignment with Vision 2030 also strengthens Saudi Arabia’s economy. By investing in AI and tourism, the Kingdom diversifies beyond oil, creating opportunities for its youth. The global connections forged through the competition could lead to partnerships that enhance Saudi Arabia’s tourism infrastructure, attracting more visitors and boosting revenue.

The UN Global Artificial Intelligence Challenge is more than a competition—it’s a bold step toward a smarter, greener future for tourism. Saudi start-ups have a unique chance to shine, showcasing AI solutions that could transform how we travel. With Vision 2030 as a guiding force, the Kingdom is leading the charge in digital innovation, inspiring entrepreneurs to dream big. From personalised trips to eco-friendly tools, the ideas born here could shape the global travel industry for years to come. This is Saudi Arabia’s moment to redefine tourism and the world is watching.

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