In a move reflecting the rapid development of the scientific research and innovation system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity (Mawhiba), in strategic partnership with the Ministry of Education, announced the final list of projects qualified for the Ibdaa Science and Engineering Fair 2026. The list includes 200 high-quality scientific projects by a select group of the Kingdom's students, who are preparing to compete in the finals scheduled to take place in Riyadh in January 2026.
Details of the most prominent scientific event
Riyadh is scheduled to host the final competitions from January 25 to 29, 2026, at the Princess Nouf bint Abdulaziz International Conference Center. This event is the final and decisive stage for selecting the Saudi national science and engineering team that will represent the Kingdom internationally at ISEF 2026 in the United States, as well as at several other global scientific events.
The journey of competition: From 357,000 to 200 creators
Reaching this list was no easy feat; it was the result of a meticulous and lengthy selection process. The "Creativity 2026" edition witnessed unprecedented participation, with over 357,000 students from across the Kingdom's educational districts registering for the initial competitions. These students underwent multiple screening stages, culminating in the central exhibitions where 500 students competed. Specialized judging panels then narrowed this down to the 200 best projects, those with the potential for development and global competitiveness.
Historical context and successive international achievements
The 2026 edition of "Ibdaa" (Creativity 2026) holds particular significance given the Kingdom's impressive track record at the ISEF International Science and Engineering Fair in recent years. Saudi participation has evolved from mere attendance to fierce competition for top positions, with Saudi students winning dozens of major and special awards in previous editions, outperforming competitors from leading industrial nations. This legacy places a heightened responsibility on the new cohort to maintain these national achievements and raise the Saudi flag high on the international stage.
The economic and strategic impact of Vision 2030
These efforts are inseparable from the broader context of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, specifically the "Human Capability Development Program." These competitions aim to transform society from a consumer of knowledge to a producer of it, by cultivating a generation of young researchers and scientists capable of developing solutions to real-world challenges in the fields of energy, the environment, medicine, and artificial intelligence. These talented individuals are expected to form the core of the knowledge economy that the Kingdom seeks to establish as a strategic and sustainable alternative.
Global arbitration standards and training programs
Finalists undergo rigorous evaluation by a panel of leading academics and experts, based on scientific standards that align with ISEF criteria. Mawhiba goes beyond simply nominating candidates; it provides them with intensive training programs, workshops to develop presentation and public speaking skills, and a thorough review of scientific research methodologies. This ensures their readiness to compete with their peers from around the world, making Ibdaa a comprehensive national incubator for talent.
