KAUST researchers win inaugural MCIT Digital Innovation Award

Summary

A team of KAUST researchers led by Abdulwahab Felemban won first place in the Digital Research track at the inaugural Digital Innovation Awards from MCIT for their AI-driven water tap, Smart-Tap. Smart-Tap uses AI to personalize water flow and pressure, reducing waste by up to 43% compared to infrared taps. The project was inspired by the water waste observed during the Wudu ritual. Why it matters: This award highlights the potential of AI-driven solutions developed in Saudi Arabia to address critical sustainability challenges like water conservation, aligning with the Kingdom's National Water Strategy 2030.