Outer Edge Riyadh will highlight Web3 and AI potential and set new milestones for the tech industry

by Victoria Palczyk

Posted: April 3, 2024 1:00 AM Updated: April 2, 2024 7:23 AM

by Anastasia Oh

Correction and fact check date: April 3, 2024, 1:00 a.m.

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briefly

Los Angeles-based Outer Edge will host a major technology conference in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on April 23, aimed at connecting entrepreneurs, innovators and venture capitalists in the Middle East.

Originating in Los Angeles and with a footprint in the Middle East, Outer Edge has been acclaimed for curating unforgettable memories and providing a platform for entrepreneurs, innovators and venture capitalists to form valuable connections. It’s no surprise, then, that Outer Edge decided to host its groundbreaking technology conference on April 23 in the bustling hub of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, positioning itself at the epicenter of development progress in the Middle East.

What is the purpose of this event?

To foster innovation in various fields, KSA has embarked on an incredible journey of embracing cutting-edge technologies such as Web3 and distributed ledgers. This initiative reflects the Kingdom’s strategic shift away from traditional oil-dependent revenue sources towards a future driven by technological advancements, particularly in the areas of blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI). Saudi Arabia aims to leverage these technologies to foster innovation in various areas, including healthcare and finance. As the ecosystem evolves, with companies focusing investments not only on AI and decentralization, but also on emerging areas such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and the Internet of Things (IoT), Saudi Arabia remains closely aligned with the goals outlined in the Saudi Vision 2030 strategy. Integrate and foster a strong technology industry.

Set at The Garage in the heart of Riyadh, the planned event promises to bring together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, diverse investors and industry stalwarts to fascinatingly explore the synergies between education, entertainment and the transformative potential of decentralization. Web3 and AI technologies. Covering topics ranging from smart towns to entertainment, sports, arts, culture and more, the gathering seeks to explore the profound social uses of these technologies, providing attendees with a multifaceted experience that transcends traditional boundaries.

Joshua Kriger, one of Outer Edge’s co-founders and co-host of the Edge of NFT and Edge of AI podcasts, expressed excitement about expanding Outer Edge’s mission. He emphasized that Outer Edge LA has aimed from the beginning to spark innovation on a global scale. Kriger conveyed his passion for bringing the principles of co-creation, connectivity and society to Saudi Arabia, where local and international supporters of the Web3, AI and gaming sectors can gather. He highlighted the unique format of Outer Edge events that foster ongoing teamwork opportunities at the intersection of culture, entertainment, and advancement.

Which speakers should we expect?

Let us highlight some of the prominent speakers scheduled to grace Outer Edge Riyadh with their valuable insights on a variety of technology topics.

• At the helm is Yat Siu, co-founder and chairman of Animoca Brands, known for its visionary approach to gaming and distributed ledger integration.

• As co-founder of Shrapnel, a pioneering venture-backed user-generated content (UGC) platform, Calvin Zhou promises to bring a unique perspective on user engagement and content creation.

• Salwa Radwi, the pioneering founder of ‘Nuqtah’, Saudi Arabia’s leading NFT marketplace, is ready to highlight the burgeoning NFT landscape and its impact on the local creative economy.

• Eric Pulier, Vatom’s innovative founder and CEO, will bring a wealth of expertise in augmented reality and virtual assets, giving attendees a glimpse into the future of immersive digital experiences.

• Amanda Cassat, founder and CEO of Serotonin, will captivate the audience with her insights on the nexus of mental health, technology and wellness innovation.

• Cole Damon, AG Esports Global’s dynamic CEO, will share his vision for the future of esports and its transformative potential in shaping the entertainment landscape.

• Yasser N Al Obaidan, Chairman of Jawraa, provides a strategic perspective on telecommunications and virtual infrastructure, illuminating the path to a connected future.

• Finally, Sebastien Borget, enterprising co-founder and COO of The Sandbox, will explore the evolving meta-universe landscape, providing powerful insights into decentralized virtual worlds and their impact on society.

Outer Edge collaboration with KACST and Animoca brands

On the big day, March 22, organizers announced an impactful partnership with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, a leading institution driving scientific advancement in the Kingdom. Our collaboration with Animoca Brands, a groundbreaking player in the virtual ownership and accessible metaworld, marks an important turning point in the convergence of technology and innovation. With a strategic outlook, these two organizations are poised to build a substantial core for Web3 in Riyadh, dedicated to driving research and development ventures across Web3, blockchain, gaming and AI. At the same time, customized training options will be launched to nurture a pool of visionary technicians.

“We seek to transform the development of blockchain and digital innovation by establishing a Web3 Hub and growing the Web3 ecosystem in Saudi Arabia,” said Dr. Mariam Nouh, Vice President of Future Economy at KACST.

Acclaimed for its relentless commitment to scientific excellence, KACST serves as KSA’s preeminent national laboratory, driving development and sustainability across the Kingdom. With an unwavering commitment to national development, KACST adopts a comprehensive approach encompassing applied scientific analysis, coordination of national initiatives in science and technology, technological exploration, and providing essential opportunities for technological advancement.

Yat Siu, Co-Founder and Chairman of Animoca Brands, said: “Through our partnership with Outer Edge Riyadh, we are honored to support the MENA region’s progress towards fully leveraging the power of Web3 and blockchain. Outer Edge Riyadh’s global leaders will gather to engage in lively debate, build valuable partnerships, create new opportunities and mobilize around a variety of topics, from the smart city revolution to redefining finance and entertainment.”

The collaborative efforts highlighted in this statement extend far beyond the realm of physical infrastructure to encompass a holistic strategy to nurture local talent and promote social and economic development across KSA, underscoring the profound impact they hope to make. In addition to creating a unique laboratory highlighting the latest developments in gaming, technology and digital innovation, Animoca Brands has pledged to provide its knowledge of token economics and Web3 finance to local projects and enterprises in the form of valuable consulting services. Along with this, KACST is ready to provide the necessary office space that fits the required framework for Web3 and gaming ventures. Leveraging Animoca Brands’ unparalleled capabilities for Web3, this collaboration aims to equip local businesses with essential industry insights and propel the Kingdom towards a future characterized by technological excellence.

Mohammad Hadhrawi, General Manager of the KACST Gaming and Immersive Technologies Lab, said: Our efforts are aligned with our national vision and strategy, which aims to foster an innovation ecosystem that fosters creativity, technological advancement, and economic diversification. By leading projects that leverage Web3, AI and immersive experiences, we aim to impact the global technology landscape and equip countries with the skills and opportunities to excel in these areas. “Our commitment is to deliver tangible results that contribute to the Kingdom’s position as a leader in the economy of the future – a key priority area for the Kingdom – ensuring a sustainable and prosperous future for all.”

Viktoriia is a writer covering a variety of technology topics, including Web3.0, AI, and cryptocurrency. Her extensive experience allows her to write insightful articles for a wider audience.

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