How a new tech academy is helping Saudi Arabia train its next generation of app developers 

Special How a new tech academy is helping Saudi Arabia train its next generation of app developers 
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Updated 28 June 2024
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How a new tech academy is helping Saudi Arabia train its next generation of app developers 

How a new tech academy is helping Saudi Arabia train its next generation of app developers 
  • The Apple Developer Academy in Riyadh will soon teach Saudi students how to design and code their own apps
  • Students at the all-female school will learn how to build, train, and deploy machine learning models across Apple devices

RIYADH: Saudi designers and entrepreneurs are making bold strides in the field of artificial intelligence, helped along by training schemes, mentors and new technologies provided by some of the world’s leading tech companies.

Silicon Valley heavyweight Apple recently unveiled a new program to train students to use the latest emerging technologies, creating opportunities for Saudi Arabia’s tech-savvy workforce of the future.

The Apple Developer Academy in Riyadh is among the institutions that will implement this training. Not only is it the first in the Middle East and North Africa region — it is also the only all-female academy of its kind in the world.

“Our mission is to empower female developers in KSA and the region, with skills for the tech jobs of tomorrow,” Ohood Al-Nayel, director of the Apple Developer Academy, told Arab News.




Ohood Al-Nayel. (Supplied)

“We aim to pioneer new frontiers in education. By empowering more women to be leaders in technology, we hope Saudi Arabia can become a hub for AI research, entrepreneurship and development in the region.”

Established as part of a collaboration between Apple and Tuwaiq Academy, the scheme is currently accepting 200 learners per year for its nine-month “The Academy” program, 330 for “The Foundation” four-week program, and 50 for its second-year visionary program. 

Scheduled to launch this autumn, the new custom-built core curriculum will teach students and alumni how to build, train and use machine-learning models across Apple devices.

“We have three goals,” Al-Nayel said. “The first is to teach our developers to always use and advocate for use of native tools like Xcode, Swift, and Apple frameworks, as this is important for iOS and app development. 

“Our second goal is to produce local Arabic apps that apply accessibility. Our final goal is not just to teach our learners how to code, but to instill in them a passion for lifelong learning and give them the tools to drive meaningful change. 

“We want our graduates to leave equipped with both strong technical skills and an innovative, entrepreneurial spirit that can transform any industry.”




The scheme is currently accepting 200 learners per year for its nine-month “The Academy” program. (Supplied)

Courses will include the fundamentals of AI technologies and frameworks, core machine learning and its ability to deliver fast performance on Apple devices, and guidance on how to build and train AI models from the ground up.

Students will learn from a guided curriculum and project-based assignments that include assistance from hundreds of mentors and more than 12,000 academy alumni worldwide.

With a focus on AI, learners will be able to apply the latest technology to fields as diverse as healthcare, education and transport.




With a focus on AI, learners will be able to apply the latest technology to fields as diverse as healthcare, education and transport. (Supplied)

Although the curriculum is yet to begin, students are already incorporating AI models to innovate the app market. 

One example is the “Artector” app, developed by Farah Al-Amri, Lujain Yahya, and Baynah bin Hathlin for art lovers who are visually impaired.

They found that the application programming interfaces of a current AI model contained biases and did not reflect the true nature of a given artwork. The team therefore trained their own AI model to better analyze art and describe it using a voiceover feature. 




The scheme is currently accepting 200 learners per year for its nine-month “The Academy” program. (Supplied)

The app functions as a visual tour guide, Al-Nayel said, providing an accessible auditory alternative.

“Users can explore various artworks and gain insights into their historical context, artistic techniques and symbolic meanings by accessing detailed descriptions either by reading or listening,” she said.

“This app enhances the art appreciation journey, enabling users to engage with and comprehend art pieces more effectively.”

Other apps include “PiClean,” which helps students clean up their surroundings and enhance environmental awareness, and “iSpeak,” which helps people conquer their fear of public speaking and communicate more clearly. 

By encouraging this kind of innovation, the academy wants students to learn important skills to contribute to local businesses and communities, and increase opportunities for developers, designers and entrepreneurs to build the growing iOS app economy.

“Our curriculum is agile and customized yearly based on feedback from regional industry leaders so learners gain skills that are applicable in the Saudi job market,” said Al-Nayel. 

The latest technologies and application programming interfaces unveiled at Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference — WWDC24 — in San Francisco earlier in June offered students access to powerful new tools. 

Xcode 16, for instance, raises the bar in developer productivity. New features and performance improvements like Swift Assist streamline coding tasks and encourage students to explore new frameworks and innovate freely.

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Swift 6 also introduces enhancements designed to improve code clarity and simplify concurrent programming.

“At Apple, we see coding as a universal language and believe in empowering developers, creators, and entrepreneurs across the world with tools and technologies that will allow them to create phenomenal experiences,” Susan Prescott, vice president of developer relations at Apple, said in a statement.

“With the introduction of a curriculum dedicated to AI and other new technologies we introduced this week, we’re excited to see what students will build to share with their communities and the world.”

The new core curriculum will be provided to thousands of students and alumni across 18 developer academies in six countries — Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Indonesia, Italy, South Korea and the US.
 

 


King Salman arrives in Jeddah

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman. (File/SPA)
Saudi Arabia’s King Salman. (File/SPA)
Updated 10 March 2025
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King Salman arrives in Jeddah

Saudi Arabia’s King Salman. (File/SPA)

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s King Salman travelled from Riyadh to Jeddah on Sunday, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The king was received at King Abdulaziz International Airport by the Deputy Governor of Makkah Region Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz.

He was seen off at King Khalid International Airport by the Deputy Governor of Riyadh Region Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz.


Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s project renovates Faydat Athqab Mosque in Hail

The Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques is renovating Faydat Athqab Mosque in Hail.
The Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques is renovating Faydat Athqab Mosque in Hail.
Updated 09 March 2025
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Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s project renovates Faydat Athqab Mosque in Hail

The Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques is renovating Faydat Athqab Mosque in Hail.
  • The goal of the initiative is to revitalize historic mosques, restoring their religious, cultural and social significance

RIYADH: The Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques, now in its second phase, is focused on renovating many mosques, including Faydat Athqab Mosque in Hail, originally built in 1946, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The goal of the initiative is to revitalize historic mosques, restoring their religious, cultural and social significance.

The project also focuses on preserving Islamic heritage and highlighting the architectural beauty of these mosques through sustainable, eco-friendly renovations that incorporate natural elements.

According to the SPA, the renovation of Faydat Athqab Mosque will honor the region’s traditional architectural style by using mud building techniques and natural materials. Hail’s unique architecture is adapted to the local environment and the hot desert climate, and this renovation aims to preserve that distinctiveness.

The project will maintain all the mosque’s essential features, while enhancing the northern windows to improve air circulation and ensure a cool environment inside.

This renovation is part of the second phase of the project, which includes the restoration of 30 mosques in all 13 regions of the Kingdom. The mosques include six in Riyadh, five in Makkah, four in Medinah, three in Asir, two each in the Eastern Province, Al-Jouf and Jazan, and one each in the Northern Borders Province, Tabuk, Al-Baha, Najran, Hail and Al-Qassim.

The project aims to strike a balance between traditional and modern construction methods, ensuring the sustainability of these historic mosques. It is being executed by Saudi companies specializing in historical structures, with Saudi engineers playing a key role in preserving the authentic architectural identity of each mosque.

The second phase follows the successful completion of the first phase, which restored 30 historic mosques in 10 regions.


Jeddah’s cultural canvas bursts into life for Ramadan Nights at Hayy Jameel

Ramadan Nights by Art Jameel have returned for a month of cultural celebration at Hayy Jameel in Jeddah. (Supplied)
Ramadan Nights by Art Jameel have returned for a month of cultural celebration at Hayy Jameel in Jeddah. (Supplied)
Updated 09 March 2025
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Jeddah’s cultural canvas bursts into life for Ramadan Nights at Hayy Jameel

Ramadan Nights by Art Jameel have returned for a month of cultural celebration at Hayy Jameel in Jeddah. (Supplied)
  • Guests can also enjoy traditional board games, live music and Ramadan-inspired culinary offerings
  • Free and open to all, Ramadan Nights also offers a shopping experience at the cultural markets

JEDDAH: Following the popularity of last year’s program, Ramadan Nights by Art Jameel have returned for a month of cultural celebration at Hayy Jameel in Jeddah.

Running until March 29 from 9:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. daily, it is held under the slogan “Hayy lights up,” and features a range of activities including public programs, craft-inspired bazaars, pop-up eateries, film screenings and hands-on workshops exploring handicrafts, wellness and heritage.

Guests can also enjoy traditional board games, live music and Ramadan-inspired culinary offerings.

Uns Kattan, deputy director and head of learning and research at Art Jameel, said that the debut program last year welcomed more than 40,000 visitors of diverse ages and backgrounds. “This year, we recognize the thirst and passion for the community-focused program and created more opportunities that embody the spirit of togetherness, creativity and cultural exchange,” she said.

“Through a dynamic program that focuses on craft, film and storytelling, we celebrate the holy month by bringing people together in an inspiring and inclusive space that bridges the wide spectrum of creative endeavors under one roof.”

Free and open to all, Ramadan Nights also offers a shopping experience at the cultural markets. One of the highlights of this year’s program was Jebna Al-Eid, which took place from March 2-4, and Ramadaniyat Lavendar, which concluded on March 8. These markets, set across Rukn Hayy, Fenaa Hayy and Saha (the community courtyard), were a blend of local eateries, artisanal products and the sounds of Oud melodies, creating a lively atmosphere.

Ghada Khalid, co-founder of Lavender Events, told Arab News that Ramadaniyat Lavender presents a selection of products, from fashion items such as dresses, abayas and traditional wear, to a diverse food area featuring Mexican, Italian sweets, Uzbekistani cuisine, specialty coffee and desserts.

“This year, we introduced a makeover offer that can be used for Eid. Through this festival, we reach a diverse audience, catering to their needs and helping them experience the true essence of Ramadan,” she said.

Abeer Dahlawi, founder of Muse, an arts, culture and entertainment center, said: “We are here at Ramadan Nights to create an enjoyable experience for everyone, offering traditional games like carrom, chess and dominoes. Our goal is to encourage people to have fun, connect and socialize with one another.”

At the Hayy Markets, curated bazaars showcase a mix of books, fashion, artisanal crafts and design pieces that promote local creativity.

Meanwhile, the pop-up eateries, located at Saha and Rukn Hayy, offer a range of local and fusion-inspired cuisine, featuring notable names such as Aysh Academy, Sofia’s Bistro and Cookie Boo.

Visitors can also enjoy the Hayy Cinema experience, which features screenings of the “My Heritage” short film series. These films tell different stories about World Heritage sites in the Arab region and are screened repeatedly from 10 p.m. onwards.

Kattan highlighted that the special programming throughout the month includes handicraft and cultural workshops, where participants can explore heritage through interactive sessions such as lino-cut printmaking using Hejazi patterns, traditional crafts by local and refugee artisans, and Arabic calligraphy.

There will also be community talks on topics ranging from Jeddah’s history and Ramadan rituals to mental health and healing. These discussions are led by experts and provide both informative and enriching experiences for attendees.

For younger visitors, the Hayy Explorers program offers an interactive experience from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m., featuring storytelling, arts and crafts. Meanwhile, the Hayy Arts and Studios section highlights contemporary art with group exhibitions such as “We Saw an Endless Cycle” and “Thread Memory: Embroidery from Palestine,” as well as open studios and workshops hosted by Jeddah-based creatives.

Dalia Rahman, who was visiting with her friends, said: “The atmosphere here is so welcoming. We came to shop for Eid dresses and found unique designs that aren’t available in regular stores. During Ramadan, I prefer to focus on worship and prayer rather than spending time in malls. This place offers everything in one spot while also celebrating cultural and traditional activities.”


Jeddah governor receives consul general of Somalia

Jeddah governor receives consul general of Somalia
Updated 09 March 2025
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Jeddah governor receives consul general of Somalia

Jeddah governor receives consul general of Somalia
  • They held friendly talks and discussed topics of common interest

JEDDAH: Jeddah Gov. Prince Saud bin Abdullah bin Jalawi received Consul General of Somalia in Jeddah Abdiweli Hersi Abdi on Sunday.

During the meeting, they held friendly talks and discussed topics of common interest, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Meanwhile, Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz, governor of the Eastern Province, met with Saudi Ambassador to Bahrain Naif Al-Sudairi in Dammam on Sunday.

 

 


Saudi authorities foil attempts to smuggle qat, hashish

Saudi authorities foil attempts to smuggle qat, hashish
Updated 09 March 2025
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Saudi authorities foil attempts to smuggle qat, hashish

Saudi authorities foil attempts to smuggle qat, hashish
  • The security authorities call upon citizens and residents to report all information regarding drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 in the rest of Saudi Arabia

JAZAN: Border Guard patrols in various locations were able to foil several attempts to smuggle drugs.

Land patrols in Al-Daer, Jazan, thwarted an attempt to smuggle 108 kg of qat, while in Al-Raboah, Asir, seven Ethiopian citizens were caught trying to smuggle 196 kg of qat.

Also in Al-Raboah, authorities foiled an attempt to smuggle 36.5 kg of hashish. Preliminary procedures have been completed, and the seized narcotics were handed to the relevant authority.

The security authorities call upon citizens and residents to report all information regarding drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, and the Eastern Province, and 999 in the rest of the Kingdom. They can also contact the General Directorate of Narcotics Control by dialing 995 or by email at [email protected].