Hackathon Overview
AI Solutions for an Intelligent Planet

The need for sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions is critical. KFUPM, in partnership with Google, invites the next generation of global leaders to tackle humanity's most pressing challenges.

This is a focused, high-impact hackathon where outstanding undergraduate students from the world's leading universities leverage Gemini, Vertex AI, and Google Cloud to develop innovative digital solutions addressing global challenges.

Inspired by KFUPM’s research strategy and Saudi Vision 2030, this initiative empowers participants to become key drivers of the future economy—fostering entrepreneurship and global collaboration.

The Challenge Theme
Intelligent Planet — Participants choose their specific challenge within this domain, addressing critical global issues such as clean energy, sustainability, mobility, and AI ethics.

Why Join the Intelligent Planet Hackathon?

  1. Work with Cutting-Edge Google Technology
    Hands-on experience with Vertex AI, Gemini, Google Cloud, and Maps API.

  2. Earn a Fully Sponsored Global Trip
    Finalist teams receive sponsored travel and accommodation to attend the multi-day finale at KFUPM, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

  3. Compete for Major Prizes
    Win cash prizes: $7,000 (1st), $5,000 (2nd), $3,000 (3rd) plus Google Upskilling Programs and media exposure.

  4. Access Exclusive Incubation
    Connect with Dhahran Techno Valley and strategic partners for startup opportunities.

  5. Develop Real-World Solutions
    Create projects with tangible impact on the planet and society.

Requirements

Who Can Participate?

Eligibility:
Open to all undergraduate and graduate students currently enrolled at a recognized university.

Team Composition:

  • Teams must consist of 3–5 students.

  • Multidisciplinary teams are highly encouraged (e.g., engineering, computer science, business, design).

Key Timeline Dates

Global Submissions – October 8, 2025: Idea submissions open.
Extended Deadline – November 8, 2025: Final deadline for proposal submissions.
Mentoring & Shortlisting – November 2025: Google and KFUPM mentors refine shortlisted ideas; top finalist teams are selected.
The Finale – January 2026: Fully sponsored, on-campus, multi-day hackathon with keynotes and an awards ceremony at KFUPM, Dhahran, Saudi Arabia.

Registration

Don’t miss this opportunity to shape the future of our Intelligent Planet!

Form your team and submit your proposal using the official submission form below.
All coding and major development must take place during the hackathon period.

👉 Register Officially and Submit Your Proposal Before October 31, 2025:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd41hfVInTLEaKupYooiqx5-tMsCEoj2rAH0nylXopUUniC_Q/formResponse

Hackathon Sponsors

Prizes

$15,000+ in prizes
+ other prizes
1st place
$7,000 in cash
1 winner

2nd place
$5,000 in cash
1 winner

3rd place
$3,000 in cash
1 winner

To All Finalists
3 winners

- Fully Sponsored Global Trip: The finalist teams will receive fully sponsored travel and accommodation to attend the multi-day finale at the KFUPM campus in Saudi Arabia.

Devpost Achievements

Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:

Judges

Judges from academia and industry will be announced later

Judges from academia and industry will be announced later

Judging Criteria

  • Problem & Impact (40%)
    Relevance to theme & Vision 2030, scalability, community/industry benefit.
  • Technical Feasibility (35%)
    Realism, complexity, use of Google tech.
  • Innovation (25%)
    Novelty, originality, creativity.

Questions? Email the hackathon manager

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