Saudi AI team wins six awards at inaugural Asia-Pacific Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence

The Saudi national artificial intelligence team achieved significant success at the inaugural Asia-Pacific Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence (APOAI) 2026, winning six international awards. This marks the Kingdom's first participation in this emerging competition, showcasing the capabilities of Saudi students in advanced technology fields. The team secured one gold medal, three silver medals, and two certificates of appreciation, highlighting their competitive edge.

Qusai Emad Jadallah earned the gold medal, while three other students were awarded silver medals. The event was organized virtually by China and featured 129 students from 18 countries, emphasizing the global nature of this competition. The achievements reflect the Kingdom's strategic investment in nurturing talent in artificial intelligence and technology.

Saudi Arabia's participation in the APOAI 2026 was facilitated by the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and KAUST Academy. This partnership illustrates the Kingdom's commitment to fostering expertise in advanced technologies and supporting students in their educational pursuits. The event took place in late June 2026, with the announcement of the team's achievements generating significant media attention.

The growing emphasis on AI and technology education in Saudi Arabia is a response to the global demand for skilled professionals in these fields. By investing in talent development, the Kingdom aims to position itself as a leader in technology and innovation. The success at the Olympiad serves as a testament to the effectiveness of these initiatives.

The success of the Saudi AI team at the APOAI 2026 sets a precedent for future participation in international competitions. This achievement is expected to encourage further investments in AI education and training within the Kingdom. As more students pursue careers in technology, the potential for innovation and economic growth in Saudi Arabia will likely increase.

Future competitions will provide additional platforms for Saudi students to showcase their skills and further enhance the country's standing in the global technology landscape. The momentum generated by this success could lead to a more vibrant ecosystem for AI development and collaboration.