Registration for the Princess Nourah University Hackathon and Artificial Intelligence
Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University’s College of Computer and Information Sciences, represented by its Artificial Intelligence Center, has announced the opening of registration for the first edition of the “Zakathon” hackathon, in strategic partnership with Elm, a leading digital solutions company. This important technology event aims to develop innovative solutions based on artificial intelligence technologies, with a special focus on natural language processing for the Arabic language. The hackathon targets female students and graduates of the university, and registration and activities will continue until Thursday, March 5, 2026.
National context for women's empowerment and technology
The launch of this hackathon comes at a time when Saudi Arabia is witnessing unprecedented technological advancements, aligned with the goals of Vision 2030, which places data and artificial intelligence at the heart of its plans to diversify the economy and build a knowledge-based society. Princess Nourah University, the world's largest women's university, plays a pivotal role in this context by empowering Saudi women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The focus on natural language processing is a strategic step towards bridging the digital divide in Arabic content and enhancing the status of the Arabic language in global smart applications.
Hackathon paths and stages
The "Zakathon" is based on a practical methodology consisting of two main phases. The first phase begins with formulating and developing the idea, while the second phase focuses on transforming these ideas into viable prototypes. The hackathon covers a wide range of vital sectors that address the needs of the community and the local market, including Hajj and Umrah services, education, legal solutions, tourism, culture, and the healthcare sector. The hackathon provides a comprehensive learning and practical environment that includes intensive workshops, mentoring sessions, and direct technical support from specialized experts, culminating in judging and final presentations.
Expected impact and strategic partnership
This event is expected to have a tangible positive impact at both the local and regional levels by graduating national talent capable of employing emerging technologies to solve real-world problems. The partnership with Elm Company exemplifies the integration between the academic and private sectors to bridge the gap between educational outcomes and labor market needs. In this regard, Dr. Shrouq Al-Sinan, Director of the College's Artificial Intelligence Center, affirmed that "Zakathon" represents a qualitative step in empowering female students to transform theoretical knowledge into impactful technological products, thus strengthening the innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in the Kingdom.
