SARI Initiative – Second Edition

An initiative launched by the Space Academy of the Saudi Space Agency to empower university students across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to design and build small satellites. This scientific journey reflects the Kingdom's leadership in space and contributes to building a new generation of national talent that will lead its scientific and technological future. From Innovation to Orbit

* Registration closes on June 30, 2026 Strategic Partner

Exceptional Opportunities for Winners

Participation in a distinguished training program at the Saudi Space Agency

Participation in a unique mission (developing a satellite and launching it into space)

Objectives

Support scientific research and experiments in space science fields

Provide hands-on application opportunities for university students in satellite design and development

Create a stimulating environment that promotes academic excellence and innovation among universities

Develop competencies and skills in space sciences and technologies

Competition Phases

01
Phase One Registration of Interest Until June 30, 2026
03
Phase Three Announcing Nominated Teams
05
Phase Five Announcing the Winning Team

02
Phase Two Evaluating Participants
04
Phase Four Training Nominated Teams
06
Phase Six Launching the Satellite to Space

SARI – First Edition

2000+

Innovators

480

Teams registered in SARI from 42 Saudi universities

These figures and innovations reflect Saudi universities' commitment to nurturing young minds in preparation for a future in space.

Learn more about the first edition

Registration Requirements

1- The applicant must be a university student enrolled in a university within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
2- The applicant must be studying in one of the STEM disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I participate?: You can apply through the competition's designated online portal on the Agency's official website.
Is there a participation fee?: Participation is free of charge.
Is there an age requirement?: The competition is open only to undergraduate students at Saudi universities.
Who can participate?: The competition is open to Saudi nationals and residents enrolled in universities within the Kingdom.
If I change my major or university after acceptance, can I continue?: No, participation cannot continue if the student changes major or university.
Can I change my team after final submission?: No, teams cannot be changed after final submission.
Must all team members be from the same university?: Yes. Team members must be from the same university but may come from different colleges, majors, or academic levels.
Are attachments required in Stage 1?: No attachments are required in the first stage.
What are the evaluation criteria in Stage 1?: The evaluation criteria will be announced later.
I cannot find my university listed. What should I do?: Please contact us through the SARI platform or via email at: Sari@ssa.gov.sa.
Where will the initiative take place?: Participation will be remote. However, attendance at the Saudi Space Agency headquarters may be required during the practical training phase, in coordination with universities.
My major is not scientific. Can I participate?: The SARI Initiative targets undergraduate students in STEM-related fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).
Are materials or manufacturing costs covered?: Finalist teams will be supported with the necessary materials for satellite manufacturing during the training phase.
Is there a training program?: Yes. A dedicated training program will be provided to shortlisted teams, with most sessions conducted remotely.

General Terms – SARI Initiative (Second Edition)

Intellectual Property and Declarations: The Saudi Space Agency retains all submitted data, information, and attachments for participation purposes.
Accuracy of Information: Any submission found to contain inaccurate or false information will be disqualified, with no obligation on the Agency.
Confidentiality: All responsible parties shall maintain the confidentiality of exchanged information. Participants must not disclose any information related to the competition or the organizing entities.
Project Ownership: Ownership of the project and all intellectual outputs belongs to the Saudi Space Agency. It may not be disclosed, used, or shared without prior approval.
Identity Verification: The Saudi Space Agency reserves the right to verify participants' identities and academic majors for organizational and evaluation purposes.
Media Publication: The responsible entities may publish relevant participant information through media channels and social media platforms.
No Compensation Claims: Participants may not submit their idea or project to another entity or claim compensation if shortlisted or selected. No legal liability shall fall on the Saudi Space Agency in this regard.