Riyadh: The Architecture and Design Commission has concluded the fourth Designathon challenge at Mohammed bin Salman Nonprofit City (Misk City) in Riyadh, held from January 29 to 31. This event attracted 2,400 applicants and over 600 designers.
According to Saudi Press Agency, Designathon is a global platform that enhances the role of design in national development, empowering talent to address urban, environmental, and technical challenges. Participants developed creative solutions across three main tracks, using design thinking and participatory methodologies. This resulted in high-quality submissions and innovative design solutions.
A total of 126 teams advanced to the finals, where a jury of experts evaluated their projects to select the top three teams in each track. The winning teams received cash prizes totaling over SAR525,000. Moreover, Designathon featured panel discussions and workshops led by more than 45 experts, with a focus on participatory design to develop sustainable solutions.
This fourth edition builds on the success of previous years, notably with the third edition in 2025 achieving a Guinness World Record as the largest design hackathon globally.