Diriyah, a historic town in Saudi Arabia, has made headlines by setting a Guinness World Record for the largest display of virtual assistant devices. This remarkable feat was part of the celebrations for Saudi Arabia’s 94th National Day on 24 September 2024, showcasing the nation’s blend of rich heritage and cutting-edge technology.
The record-breaking display
The event featured over 500 Amazon Echo devices, each equipped with Alexa voice assistants. These devices were meticulously orchestrated to harmonize the Saudi national anthem and other patriotic songs, creating a unique and immersive experience for visitors at Bujairi Terrace in Diriyah. The synchronization of these devices demonstrated technological prowess and evoked a sense of national pride and unity among the attendees.
Official recognition
Officials from Guinness World Records were present to witness and validate the achievement. Kanzy El Defrawy, the Official Guinness World Records Senior Adjudicator, congratulated Diriyah on this milestone, highlighting the town’s commitment to integrating artificial intelligence with cultural celebrations. This recognition highlights Diriyah’s role as a pioneer in bringing innovative entertainment to the people of Saudi Arabia.
Statements from key figures
Jerry Inzerillo, the Chief Executive of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA), expressed his pride in this historic moment. He said the achievement reflects Saudi Arabia’s innovative spirit and Diriyah’s dedication to preserving and promoting the nation’s rich heritage and culture. Dr. Raf Fatani, Amazon MENA’s regional general manager of Alexa, also shared his enthusiasm, noting that the collaboration was a celebration of the Kingdom’s cultural heritage intertwined with modern technology.
Broader celebrations
The record-setting display was just one highlight of the extensive celebrations held across Diriyah. The festivities included various events and activities at the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site of At-Turaif, attracting thousands of visitors. These events offered a glimpse into Saudi Arabia’s authentic national identity and showcased the rich culture of the Kingdom’s first capital.
Diriyah’s achievement on Saudi Arabia’s 94th National Day showcases the nation’s ability to blend tradition with innovation. By setting a Guinness World Record for the largest display of virtual assistant devices, Diriyah celebrated a key national milestone while highlighting how technology can enrich cultural experiences. This historic event will be remembered as a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s progressive outlook and its respect for cultural heritage.
