Jeddah: The Hajj Conference and Exhibition 2025 has launched a chefs’ challenge and two innovation and technology hackathons, offering cash prizes for the winning projects. The event, organized by the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah in cooperation with the Pilgrim Experience Program-one of Saudi Vision 2030’s key initiatives-is being held at the Jeddah Superdome from November 9 to 12.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the ‘Hajj Chefs Challenge’ is dedicated specifically to chefs serving pilgrims. It is a pioneering initiative in culinary innovation, where top Saudi chefs and promising talents present creative dishes that combine national identity with global professionalism, delivering an inspiring and sustainable catering experience for pilgrims during the Hajj season.

In other fields, the conference launched the ‘Hajj Logistics Hackathon,’ in collaboration with the University of Jeddah, to encourage innovators and tech talents to develop smart digital solutions that enhance pilgrims’ experiences and improve the efficiency of transport and logistics systems during Hajj. The hackathon covers areas such as pilgrim services, crowd management, digital experiences, digital transformation in the transport and logistics sectors, and innovation in health and medical services for pilgrims.

The ‘Humanizing the Holy Sites Hackathon,’ organized in cooperation with Umm Al-Qura University, brings together specialists in engineering and design to develop sustainable urban environments within the holy sites that prioritize human experience and environmental harmony, positively reflecting on the overall experience of pilgrims.