Saee, a KAUST-supported Saudi startup based in Jeddah, aims to disrupt last-mile delivery in Saudi Arabia by addressing challenges like delays and cash-on-delivery (COD) issues. They offer services such as fast COD consolidation, flexible dispatch to freelancers, and warehouse management. Saee also introduces a new concept called Cash Before Delivery (CBD) to improve cash flow for e-commerce platforms. Why it matters: This aims to solve a key bottleneck for e-commerce growth in Saudi Arabia, where COD is prevalent and creates financial inefficiencies.
KAUST startup Saee, a last-mile delivery company, was recently acquired by Estimkan Holding. Co-founded by KAUST alumnus Dr. Tariq Alturkestani, Saee benefited from KAUST's support through programs like the KGSP and the TAQADAM Startup Accelerator. Saee evolved from a carpooling app for women into a logistics solution for parcel delivery, adapting to the changing Saudi market. Why it matters: The success of Saee demonstrates KAUST's increasing role in fostering entrepreneurship and contributing to Saudi Vision 2030 by developing innovative ventures.
KAUST has launched self-driving shuttles on its campus, making it the first adopter of autonomous vehicles in Saudi Arabia. The pilot project utilizes vehicle technology from Local Motors and EasyMile. SAPTCO will operate the autonomous shuttles and manage operations with Saudi staff. Why it matters: This initiative advances Saudi Arabia's 2030 Vision and positions KAUST as a regional leader in smart city development and AI research.
Saudi startup Firnas Aero, founded in 2018, offers drone-based inspection services targeting aviation, security, industrial, and delivery sectors. The company develops its own drones and AI-equipped software for faster and more accurate inspections than manual methods. Their solution involves drones capturing high-resolution images analyzed by AI to pinpoint issues, enhancing speed and accuracy. Why it matters: This showcases Saudi Arabia's growing entrepreneurial interest in drone technology and AI-powered solutions for industrial applications, potentially improving efficiency and safety across sectors.
Aitonomi, a company specializing in autonomous EV transport systems, held a recruitment event at KAUST to tap into the university's talent pool. Aitonomi aims to support Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by developing fully autonomous and electric transport systems and plans to hire up to 12 skilled workers in KSA for 2024. The company hopes to establish an in-Kingdom manufacturing center and training facility. Why it matters: This initiative highlights the growing demand for AI talent in Saudi Arabia and KAUST's role in supporting the Kingdom's technological advancements and goals for sustainable transportation.