Tawuniya’s ‘InsurAI’ challenge showcases AI-powered breakthrough in insurance

Tawuniya’s ‘InsurAI’ challenge showcases AI-powered breakthrough in insurance
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Updated 27 May 2025

Tawuniya’s ‘InsurAI’ challenge showcases AI-powered breakthrough in insurance

Tawuniya’s ‘InsurAI’ challenge showcases AI-powered breakthrough in insurance

Marking the culmination of its highly anticipated 12-week virtual program “InsurAI,” Tawuniya, the largest insurance company in the Middle East and North Africa, successfully concluded its Demo Day on May 26. The event showcased 10 cutting-edge startups, selected from a competitive pool of over 1,000 applicants, which presented their innovative solutions designed to unlock new avenues for growth and transformation in the insurance sector.

Launched in December 2024 by Tawuniya in collaboration with Plug and Play, and supported by government partners including Monsha’at and CODE, the InsurAI program underscores Tawuniya’s steadfast commitment to driving digital transformation in the region’s insurance industry. It also aims to propel economic development and strengthen ’s growing startup ecosystem in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030 goals.

The program provided a unique platform for 10 rising innovators — Papaya Insurtech, WideBot AI, DESAISIV, Najeeb.ai, Intella, Yasmina, AlloBrain, Curacel, CozmoX AI, and Chefaa — who were selected through a rigorous evaluation process. During Demo Day, these startups pitched their next-generation generative AI solutions to a curated audience of investors, technology leaders, and Tawuniya executives.

Abdullah Alshargi, CTO at Tawuniya, said: “The InsurAI is more than just a platform — it’s a statement of intent. We are investing in a future where artificial intelligence is seamlessly integrated into the insurance ecosystem to bring about real, measurable impact. Demo Day spotlighted how visionary startups are already solving some of the industry’s most pressing challenges — from claims automation and fraud detection to hyper-personalized customer experiences.”

“Through strategic partnerships and hands-on mentorship, we have built a launchpad for innovation that aligns with Tawuniya’s mission to lead the digital transformation of the insurance sector. We envision InsurAI as a catalyst for long-term collaboration and a driver of what’s next in insurtech,” he added

Over the course of the program, each team received expert mentorship and support in areas such as product development, regulatory compliance, and go-to-market strategy. Strategic partners played an instrumental role in the program, enhancing the startups’ journey toward scalability and investment-readiness.

The event concluded with the announcement of the top three startups, who shared a prize pool of $225,000 alongside potential partnership opportunities with Tawuniya.

This event marks a significant milestone in Tawuniya’s mission to foster an innovation-driven ecosystem and cement ’s role as a regional hub for AI and insurtech.


Refad Real Estate Investment & Development launches Miraf District in Alkhobar

Refad Real Estate Investment & Development launches Miraf District in Alkhobar
Updated 04 November 2025

Refad Real Estate Investment & Development launches Miraf District in Alkhobar

Refad Real Estate Investment & Development launches Miraf District in Alkhobar

Refad Real Estate Investment and Development, a subsidiary of Al-Qahtani Holding Group, has announced the official launch of “Miraf District” in Alkhobar. The project introduces a first-of-its-kind mixed-use destination in the Eastern Province, combining residential, commercial, hospitality, and leisure experiences within a single integrated environment. It forms part of Refad’s ongoing development program aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, reflecting the company’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and quality of life.

Developed on a 42,000-square-meter site and a construction area of approximately 200,000 square meters, along King Faisal Road overlooking downtown Alkhobar, Miraf District consists of four main components: MirafResidences, two residential towers offering 152 units and lifestyle facilities with direct access to the plaza; the Business Tower, an 18-story office building with panoramic views and over 20,000 square meters of leasable space; The Plaza, a vibrant retail and entertainment hub featuring restaurants, cafés, clinics, and recreational spaces; and Hotel Indigo, managed by IHG Hotels and Resorts, providing 240 hotel units that blend local character with international standards.

The project is being develped in partnership with several leading global firms. Gensler is responsible for the master design, bringing its expertise in creating urban destinations that combine creativity with functionality. JLL, with over 200 years of experience in real estate and advisory services, oversees leasing strategies to ensure optimal tenant mix and market value. Colliers provides financial and analytical consultancy through feasibility studies that support the project’s long-term sustainability.

Abdulhadi Al-Qahtani, managing director of Refad, said: “Miraf District reflects our commitment to Vision 2030 and our belief that true urban development begins and ends with people. Through this project, we aim to create a vibrant community that enhances quality of life and supports economic growth.”

Khalid Al-Mubarak, chief development officer, added: “We have worked with global partners to ensure the project meets the highest standards in design, planning, and execution, reinforcing Alkhobar’s position as a leading destination for living, investment, and tourism.”

Reflecting Refad’s vision of human-centered urban development, Miraf District places people at the core of its design, offering an integrated environment that meets daily needs, fosters community, and supports a balanced lifestyle. The project adds a distinctive and inspiring dimension to the Eastern Province’s urban landscape, aligning with the Kingdom’s vision for sustainable growth and quality of life.