

IBRI: The University of Technology and Applied Sciences (UTAS) – Ibri has officially launched the third edition of its Drone Photography Hackathon under the theme "Soar Beyond Limits – The Sky is No Longer the Limit." The event brings together 65 students and staff from multiple university branches to explore the future of digital content creation using drone and AI technologies.
The hackathon aims to harness modern tools of digital transformation to showcase Omani cultural and touristic landmarks through innovative visual storytelling. It focuses on drone photography training, AI-powered editing, and entrepreneurship in tourism and urban development.
Dr Al Ameer bin Nasser al Alawi, Assistant Vice-Chancellor of UTAS–Ibri, inaugurated the event and welcomed participants, emphasising the importance of integrating technology and creativity in education and development.
Workshops cover a wide range of topics including drone safety protocols, aerial photography techniques, AI editing tools, and creative content production. Participants are grouped into specialised teams and will produce short films at key tourist sites across Al Dhahirah Governorate over a 48-hour challenge period.
A panel of expert judges will evaluate the final projects based on drone operation, production quality, direction, and teamwork. Winners will be honoured in three main categories and four incentive prizes.
The hackathon reflects UTAS’s commitment to empowering students with future-ready skills, fostering innovation, and strengthening collaboration between academia and the wider community.
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