In an unprecedented achievement, young Saudi woman Maryam bint Khalid Al-Otaibi has developed a smart application aimed at facilitating the lives of people with special needs. This accomplishment comes as part of the Kingdom’s efforts to empower women in the field of technology and innovation.
Maryam, aged 27, holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science from King Saud University. She began her journey in the world of technology at a young age, where she enjoyed designing websites and developing applications.
In 2022, Maryam participated in the “Special Needs Hackathon” organized by the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA). During this event, she presented the idea for the “Noor” application, which helps the visually impaired navigate independently within public buildings.
“My goal with this application was to empower people with special needs and make their lives easier,” says Maryam. “I was inspired by a personal experience with one of my relatives who suffers from visual impairment.”
The “Noor” application won first place in the competition and received widespread praise from the audience. It also attracted the attention of several major technology companies in the Kingdom.
According to official statistics, there are more than 3 million people with special needs in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 aims to improve their quality of life and integrate them into society.
Commenting on Maryam’s achievement, Dr. Ahmed Al-Sabai’, advisor to the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, said: “We are proud of our young talents who contribute to building a promising digital future for the Kingdom. Maryam is a role model for ambitious Saudi women.”
Currently, Maryam is working on developing an advanced version of the “Noor” application in collaboration with the Royal Commission for Riyadh City. She also plans to launch a startup specializing in developing technological solutions for people with special needs.
“I aspire to be a role model for young Saudi women and encourage them to enter the field of technology,” Maryam concludes. “With knowledge and determination, nothing is impossible.”
Maryam’s success comes at a time when the Kingdom is seeking to enhance the role of women in various sectors, especially in the fields of science, technology, and innovation. Her achievement is expected to inspire a new generation of Saudi innovators.