New smart system helps blind users navigate with confidence

The project supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to empower people with disabilities, promote their inclusion in society. (SPA)
The project supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to empower people with disabilities, promote their inclusion in society. (SPA)
Short Url
Updated 05 October 2025
Follow

New smart system helps blind users navigate with confidence

New smart system helps blind users navigate with confidence
  • Scientific testing has shown the system to be more accurate and efficient than conventional models, with the added benefit of compatibility with mobile and smart devices

ARAR: A research team from Northern Borders University, in collaboration with the King Salman Center for Disability Research, has developed an intelligent navigation system designed to help blind and visually impaired individuals move more independently in a variety of environments.

The innovative system uses Vision Transformer technology and a dual-attention mechanism to analyze images and extract detailed visual information. This enables users to recognize their surroundings — such as offices, classrooms or stores — without relying on direct assistance, enhancing both privacy and confidence.

Scientific testing has shown the system to be more accurate and efficient than conventional models, with the added benefit of compatibility with mobile and smart devices.

The project supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to empower people with disabilities, promote their inclusion in society, and ensure equal access to education, employment and mobility opportunities.

 


Saudi deputy foreign minister meets UAE ambassador, German envoy

Saudi deputy foreign minister meets UAE ambassador, German envoy
Updated 8 sec ago
Follow

Saudi deputy foreign minister meets UAE ambassador, German envoy

Saudi deputy foreign minister meets UAE ambassador, German envoy

RIYADH: Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed bin Abdulkarim held separate meetings on Thursday at the ministry’s headquarters in Riyadh with the Ambassador of the UAE Matar Salem Al-Dhaheri, and the German Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Heiko Nitschke.

During his meeting with Al-Dhaheri, the two sides reviewed the deep-rooted fraternal relations between Saudi Arabia and the UAE and discussed topics of mutual interest.

In his talks with Nitschke, Al-Khuraiji discussed Saudi-German relations and developments in the Horn of Africa. The meeting was attended by the Director General of the African Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Saqr Al-Qurashi, and the German Ambassador to the Kingdom Michael Kindsgrab.