Nov 18, 2025
Introduction
Saudi Arabia’s festival landscape has entered a new era of engagement. From Riyadh Season to Jeddah’s waterfront activations, event organizers are adopting augmented reality (AR) games to keep visitors entertained, informed, and active across large venues.
Among the most popular formats is the AR treasure hunt — a gamified experience that transforms ordinary spaces into interactive exploration zones. Participants use their smartphones to locate, unlock, and collect virtual items scattered around event grounds. It’s simple, inclusive, and highly effective at extending dwell time and participation.
How the AR Treasure Hunt Works
Each AR treasure hunt combines mobile-based geolocation tracking, real-world mapping, and digital overlay. Visitors receive clues through an event app or QR stations placed throughout the venue. Using their phone camera, they can scan and reveal 3D collectibles, animations, or brand tokens layered onto physical landmarks.
For example, at a Riyadh festival, participants might follow digital clues to locate cultural icons, complete mini-challenges, or unlock discount rewards from event sponsors. Every interaction generates data — helping organizers understand visitor flow and engagement hotspots.
NXT Interactive custom-builds these treasure hunt systems with localized design, bilingual interfaces, and real-time leaderboard integration to suit Saudi audiences.
Why Festivals in Riyadh and Jeddah Are Embracing AR Games
Crowd Engagement at Scale
With thousands of visitors across multiple zones, AR treasure hunts turn crowd movement into structured participation. Instead of passively attending, visitors explore the space with purpose.Brand Integration and Sponsorship Value
Every digital clue can carry a sponsor’s branding or offer a reward — creating measurable marketing impressions within an entertainment context.Cultural Storytelling Made Interactive
Organizers in Jeddah’s heritage districts or AlUla’s cultural showcases can use AR hunts to tell stories — guiding visitors through historical trails or showcasing traditional art forms in 3D.Safe, Contactless Play
Since interactions happen through visitors’ own devices, AR treasure hunts maintain hygiene and accessibility standards suitable for family-friendly events.
Technology Behind the Experience
The system combines:
Geofencing and Location Triggers – to activate AR experiences only within designated areas.
3D Object Recognition – to map digital items accurately onto real-world landmarks.
Live Leaderboards and Progress Tracking – to encourage replay and friendly competition.
Sponsor Dashboard – for real-time analytics on participation and brand visibility.
NXT ensures compatibility with both Android and iOS, with no app downloads required when hosted via webAR.
Benefits for Event Organizers
Higher dwell time across festival zones.
Family-inclusive participation suitable for all age groups.
Real-time visitor data for performance analysis.
Stronger sponsor ROI through measurable digital engagement.
Reusability – game templates can be adapted for future events or different locations.
Conclusion
AR treasure hunts represent the next step in interactive festival design across Saudi Arabia. They merge technology with entertainment, turning city landmarks and festival spaces into digital playgrounds.
With projects already active in Riyadh and Jeddah, NXT Interactive continues to help organizers redefine engagement — creating experiences where exploration, storytelling, and play come together seamlessly.
