International Competition on AI in Education at Umm Al-Qura University Enhances Innovation, Global Academic Collaboration

 Makkah Region continues to boost its scientific and technological presence on the international stage with the second edition of the International Competition on AI in Education 2026. The event is hosted by Umm Al-Qura University in cooperation with the Education University of Hong Kong and several international partners, as part of a scientific initiative aimed at supporting innovation in the use of AI technologies in education and enhancing academic collaboration among universities and research institutions worldwide.

 The competition has attracted wide participation from universities and academic entities, with 62 submitted projects and 122 participants, including researchers and students interested in AI and its advanced technologies.

 Saudi universities recorded a strong presence in this international competition, with participation from 21 universities and educational institutions, in addition to three universities from Gulf countries.

 The competition includes a number of accompanying scientific programs, including specialized workshops and panel discussions delivered by experts and academics in the fields of AI, computer science, and digital transformation, with the aim of developing participants’ skills and enhancing their capabilities in technological innovation and digital entrepreneurship.

 The competition is scheduled to conclude with the announcement of shortlisted projects nominated for technical incubation, in addition to honoring winners of the best innovative projects in AI applications in education. These efforts aim to transform ideas into practical technological projects that contribute to the development of the educational process and boost digital transformation in educational institutions at the international level.