Manar Foundation Launches Waha AI Hackathon to Develop AI Solutions for Community Challenges
Manar Foundation launches the Waha AI Hackathon, empowering GCC youth to build AI solutions for environmental, health and career challenges.
22 July 2026
Manar Foundation for Community Engagement has announced the launch of the Waha AI Hackathon, a virtual regional programme designed to empower young people across the Gulf Cooperation Council countries to use artificial intelligence and data to address real community challenges.
The hackathon will support participants in turning promising ideas into practical solutions with the potential to create lasting social impact. It forms part of Manar Foundation’s broader commitment to advancing community innovation and enabling young people to apply emerging technologies in support of sustainable development.
Through a hands on and collaborative experience, participants will receive specialised training, expert mentorship and dedicated opportunities to work in teams. The programme will bring together expertise from the fields of technology, entrepreneurship and innovation, helping participants move from identifying a challenge to developing a viable prototype.
The hackathon is expected to welcome 80 participants between the ages of 21 and 35 from across the GCC. Applications are currently being reviewed, with selected participants set to develop AI powered solutions across three key areas:
- Environment and environmental behaviour
- Public and mental health
- Career guidance for young people
Taking place online from 20 to 22 August 2026, the three day programme will feature specialised workshops, mentoring sessions and collaborative development activities. Participants will work intensively to refine their ideas and build practical prototypes before presenting their final projects to a judging panel on the closing day.
Participants will compete for prizes with a total value of USD 5,000. Winning teams will also receive technical guidance and mentorship to help them further develop their solutions and strengthen their potential for long term sustainability.
Through the Waha AI Hackathon, Manar Foundation continues to support initiatives that bring together innovation, technology and community impact. The programme reflects the Foundation’s vision of enabling young people to play an active role in designing practical responses to the challenges affecting their communities.
For programme details and the latest updates, visit: