Global Competitors Share Positive Experiences from 2025 Technology Olympiad in Iran

Tehran, Iran – The 2025 Technology Olympiad at the Iran International Innovation District (IIID) welcomed participants from 16 countries, with cybersecurity specialists from Pakistan and Algeria describing the event as technically world-class and expressing surprise at Iran’s advanced technology landscape and warm hospitality.

Pakistani contestant Zeeshan Haider, competing in the cybersecurity Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges, said the experience far exceeded expectations. Having participated in major global events such as BlackHat, he noted that Iran’s competition was unique in introducing hardware-based CTF challenges, a format he had never encountered in his 3–4 years of professional work. He praised the availability of on-site hardware and resources, enabling participants to test and improve their skills in realistic scenarios.

Haider highlighted Iran’s rapid progress in electronics, hardware, and technology, adding that the country’s engineers, researchers, and products demonstrated competitive strength comparable to leading tech nations. He described Iranian culture as “extraordinary,” citing people’s kindness, politeness, and professional knowledge.

Algerian participant Ilkeston Medjedoub also lauded the event, calling the competition “completely on an international level” and valuable for learning. Initially hesitant to travel due to negative online information, he found Iran to be safe and welcoming. Medjedoub emphasized that Iranian teams performed exceptionally well, securing top places in early rounds, and said the experience changed his perception of the country.

Both participants concluded that the IIID-hosted Technology Olympiad offered not only world-class technical challenges but also an atmosphere of collaboration and cultural exchange that defied negative stereotypes.