Saudi Arabia’s Digital Entrepreneurship Center (CODE) invites entrepreneurs and startups to apply for the Hajj & Umrah Tech Challenge, a program designed to foster innovation in services for pilgrims. This challenge connects participants with the fundamentals of business modeling and product innovation to create impactful solutions.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Tech Challenge & Bootcamp
- For: Startups and teams with an idea or prototype in Hajj and Umrah technology
- Key Benefits: MVP development, specialized mentorship, technical support, and access to industry leaders
- Application Deadline: Acceptance confirmation by July 9, 2026
- Location: Hybrid (In-person & Virtual)
Challenge Overview
The Hajj & Umrah Tech Challenge is a digital competition focused on developing innovative technology solutions to enhance the pilgrim experience. The program is designed for tech projects, industry experts, and decision-makers in the sector, guiding them from an initial idea to a viable product through intensive training and mentorship.
Key Benefits
Participants in the challenge will receive a range of benefits to help build and scale their solutions, including:
- Specialized Mentorship: Guidance from industry experts.
- Advanced Workshops: In-depth training on key business and technical topics.
- MVP Development: Support to build a Minimum Viable Product.
- Technical Support: Access to technical resources and assistance.
- Industry Access: Connections with key enablers and stakeholders in the Hajj and Umrah sector.
- Latest Insights: Exposure to the latest trends and technologies in the field.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following conditions to be considered for the challenge:
- Have an existing idea or a preliminary prototype related to Hajj and Umrah technology.
- A multidisciplinary team covering management, technical, and operational aspects.
- Commitment to participate in all tracks and activities of the program.
- Full-time availability throughout all stages of the challenge.
Challenge Tracks
The challenge focuses on innovation across three key tracks:
- Pilgrim Experience Technologies: Solutions aimed at improving the pilgrim’s journey, including smart transportation, real-time guidance, and personalized services for comfort and safety.
- Language & Communication Technologies: Tools to break down language barriers, such as AI-powered translation, multilingual support systems, and instant communication platforms.
- Smart Crowd Management Technologies: Intelligent systems using AI, sensors, and data analytics to monitor, analyze, and manage large crowds, ensuring safety and smooth flow.
Key Dates and Schedule
- Registration Opens: May 19, 2026
- Acceptance Confirmation: July 9, 2026
- Challenge Launch: July 12, 2026
- Training Bootcamp: July 26 – August 6, 2026
- Mentoring & Follow-up: August 16 – 20, 2026
- Judging Day: August 26, 2026
- Closing Ceremony: To be announced
How to Apply
Interested teams can apply now by completing the official registration form. The selection process will take place after the acceptance confirmation on July 9, 2026.
Apply Here
About CODE (Digital Entrepreneurship Center)
The Digital Entrepreneurship Center (CODE) is an initiative by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT). It aims to support and empower the digital entrepreneurship ecosystem in the Kingdom through various programs, services, and community engagement.
Learn More: مركز ريادة الأعمال الرقمية
