Arab Open University (AOU) concluded its inaugural Startup Competition 2025 at its Riyadh campus, celebrating the innovative achievements of student-led projects with awards presented by HRH Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal. The event reinforced AOU’s mission to empower young entrepreneurs while supporting Vision 2030’s shift toward a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Winning startup Jadwalna is an AI-powered tourism platform that offers personalized experiences across Saudi Arabia, while providing service providers with smart marketing and payment tools. Second-place winner Sakina addresses mental health needs through culturally grounded AI tools, delivering round-the-clock support and wellness resources. Taking both third place and the most-voted award, Eco Bin is a smart waste-sorting solution that promotes sustainability through automated material detection and recycling.

Speaking at the ceremony, Prince Khaled noted that his visit to AOU felt like a return to a second home – recalling the foundational role played by the late His Royal Highness Prince Talal bin Abdulaziz Al Saud in establishing the university.

Source: Arab Open University

Prince Talal announced the AOU initiative in 1996 with a vision to create a non-traditional academic institution that would drive development in scientific, social and cultural fields. That vision became a reality in 2002 with the establishment of AOU, in cooperation with the Open University in the United Kingdom.

Additional finalist projects spanned a range of impactful themes – from AI-based queue management systems and non-invasive drug detection devices to emergency communication tools for non-verbal users. The cohort also included solutions focused on afforestation mapping, virtual reality communities, assistive technology for the visually impaired, and platforms connecting innovators with investors.

Source: Arab Open University

With initiatives like the AOU Startup Competition, the Arab Open University continues to position itself as a launchpad for ambitious talent and a driver of entrepreneurial progress in the region.

Related: What Investors Look For When Evaluating Your Pitch: HRH Prince Khaled Bin Alwaleed Bin Talal