Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority (GEA) has successfully concluded its “Entertainment Innovations” competition in Riyadh, a national initiative designed to spur innovation and develop high-impact solutions for the Kingdom’s burgeoning entertainment sector. The event underscores GEA’s commitment to building a sustainable entertainment ecosystem and leveraging entrepreneurship to achieve the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The closing ceremony, held at The Ritz-Carlton hotel, showcased the final projects developed by teams who tackled real-world challenges within the entertainment industry. The comprehensive program guided participants from initial idea development and business model creation to branding, go-to-market strategies, and a final pitch before a specialized judging panel.
From 300 Participants to Three Winners
The competition began with a digital bootcamp that attracted over 300 participants for workshops focused on team formation and idea generation. From this initial pool, the top 40 teams advanced to an in-person bootcamp. This intensive phase featured four workshops and numerous coaching and mentorship sessions, all within an interactive environment aimed at transforming creative ideas into viable, executive-level projects.
The competition’s tracks were strategically designed to address key areas of growth, including modern technologies for utilizing AI and data analytics to enhance visitor experiences, the development of integrated entertainment cities and destinations, experience design that reflects Saudi identity, and improvements in operational efficiency across the sector.
Fostering a Smart and Sustainable Sector
In his address at the ceremony, Ahmed Al-Sohail, Director General of Sector Support at GEA, emphasized that the competition was more than just a contest; it was a platform for shaping the future. He stated it embodied the Authority’s belief that innovation is the primary driver for the entertainment sector’s growth.
“This initiative, with the support of our wise leadership and the guidance of His Excellency Turki bin Abdulmohsen Al-Sheikh, opens the door for entrepreneurs and innovators to develop solutions for real challenges and turn ideas into applicable business models, in line with Saudi Vision 2030,” said Al-Sohail.
He added that the participation of over 300 young men and women reflects the passion and ambition of the nation’s youth, highlighting them as the fuel for the future.
Meet the Winning Innovators
From ten finalists, three teams were crowned winners. The first-place prize of SAR 150,000 was awarded to “Isma’ali,” a project that allows event attendees to choose and interact with songs in real-time within event venues.
“Saudi Gardens” secured second place and a prize of SAR 90,000. The project aims to develop natural parks that offer interactive and entertaining experiences for families.
In third place, “Siraj” received SAR 60,000 for its concept of transforming imaginative shows into stunning visual experiences using AI and drone technology.
Beyond the cash prizes, the winners will receive a comprehensive support package valued at over $1 million. This includes legal and advisory services, technology tools, and cloud computing resources to ensure their innovative ideas successfully transition from the winner’s podium to market reality.
About The General Entertainment Authority (GEA)
The General Entertainment Authority (GEA) was established in line with Saudi Vision 2030 to regulate and develop the entertainment sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Its primary mission is to enrich the lives of residents and visitors by providing diverse, world-class entertainment options and creating a sustainable ecosystem that fosters local talent and drives economic growth.
Source: Al Riyadh
