About the Challenge

The Mega Challenge is an intensive design and innovation competition that takes place during Tanween, Ithra’s annual conference dedicated to design and creativity. In four short days, 60 shortlisted designers and innovators from all over the world will compete to craft original, practical solutions within tight timeframes and limited resources. Each of the three tracks welcome 20 participants (individuals or in teams) to put their creative skillsets to the test.

This year, the Mega Challenge has set its focus on enriching the pilgrim’s experience during Hajj. Every year, pilgrims travel on a sacred journey to Makkah as their souls, minds and bodies supplicate to Allah while performing the rituals of the Hajj. As such, the rapid developments occurring during Hajj has produced several opportunities to make  significant improvements in the Earth’s most sacred place.

Ithra

Mega Challenge Tracks

Timeline

1

Registration opens: August 20, 2024

2

Registration closes: October 24, 2024 

3

Challenges start: October 30, 2024

4

Challenges end: November 2, 2024 

Mega Challenge Outcomes

Take on a Real World Design Challenge

This year’s Mega Challenge is calling on all designers and innovators all over the globe to come up with sustainable designs and solutions that contribute to enriching the pilgrim’s journey within three challenge tracks that address major challenges faced by pilgrims. The tracks are: communication, waste management, and health.

Take on a Real World Design Challenge

Gain Knowledge

Throughout the 4-day challenge, you'll have the opportunity to connect with Knowledge Partners who will guide you as you develop your idea.

Gain Knowledge

Make an Impact

Winners of the Mega Challenge will get the opportunity to present and share their proposals to entities that work closely with the Ministry of Hajj for potential development and implementation.

Make an Impact

Jury members 

Prof. Abdullah Alkadi

Prof. Abdullah Alkadi

Founder and CEO of Abdullah Alkadi Company for Historical and Heritage Consultations

Faisal lanjawi

Faisal lanjawi

Senior General Manager - Business Intelligence and Innovation in the pilgrim experience program

Hadi Alfakeh

Hadi Alfakeh

General Manager of Media and Public Relations in the Pilgrim Experience Program

Ruba Alkhaldi

Ruba Alkhaldi

Design Innovation Strategist

Asim Almulami

Asim Almulami

Consultant at the National Center for Waste Management

Ahmed Ramadhani

Ahmed Ramadhani

Business Development Manager - HajjPMO in the pilgrim experience program

Khalid Alharbi

Khalid Alharbi

Innovation Consultant

Maryam Waiel Kutob

Maryam Waiel Kutob

General Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, Ministry of Hajj and Umrah

Mentors

Michelle Jafery

Michelle Jafery

Design Fellow, IDEO & Co-Founder, Friday Gallery

Dennis - Cheung Hoi Kwan

Dennis - Cheung Hoi Kwan

Director & Architect of Studio RYTE

Ali Yousef

Ali Yousef

Creative Designer and International Wayfinding Specialist

Hashim Alzain

Hashim Alzain

CTO and Co-Founder of DarTec Engineering & HealTec for Rehabilitation

Dr. Mohammad Alfelali

Dr. Mohammad Alfelali

Consultant and Assistant Professor in Public health, King Abdulaziz University

Hatim Alharbi

Hatim Alharbi

Director of Experience Development for Two Holy Mosques in the pilgrim experience program

Waleed Galmo

Waleed Galmo

Decision Support Manager, HajjPMO in the pilgrim experience program

Our Partners

FAQs

What is the Tanween Mega Challenge?

The Tanween Mega Challenge is an intensive design and innovation competition that takes place during Tanween, Ithra’s annual conference dedicated to design and creativity. In four short days, 60 shortlisted designers and innovators from all over the world will compete to craft original, practical solutions within tight timeframes and limited resources. Each of the three tracks welcome 20 participants (individuals or in teams) to put their creative skillsets to the test.

In 2024 there will be three Mega Challenge tracks:

  • Communication track
  • Health and Wellbeing track
  • Waste Management track

Can I participate in more than one track?

No, the 3 tracks happen simultaneously. You will not be able to participate in more than one track.

Can I participate with a previous idea I had and develop it during the Mega Challenge?

No. All ideas must be original and related to the objectives and goals of the challenge.

I study/work in a non-design field which means I have no professional experience as a designer, can I still join the challenge?

Yes, scientists, innovators, engineers, designers and medical professionals are encouraged to apply for this year’s Mega Challenge.

Are these challenges open for international participants?

Yes, the Mega Challenge accepts applications from all over the world.

Where does the Tanween Mega Challenge take place?

The Mega Challenge takes place in the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra).

Do I need to pay a fee to apply to the Mega Challenge?

No, applying for Mega Challenge is free.

Can we join as a team?

Yes, although each team member will have to apply individually.

What is the prize?

Winners of the 2024 Tanween Mega Challenge will get an opportunity to present and share their proposals to entities that work closely with the Sector's Stakeholders for potential development and implementation.

I’ve registered for the Mega Challenge but I didn’t receive a confirmation email, what should I do?

The Ithra team is filtering all the applications; you will receive a confirmation email if you were selected.

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