Abdulaziz Almuqrin

Saudi Arabian innovator developing affordable prosthetics for war-affected youth

Abdulaziz Almuqrin is a Saudi mechanical engineer whose MakingSmart organization has provided over 2,500 affordable prosthetic limbs to children in conflict zones since 2019. His award-winning 3D-printed modular prosthetics cost 90% less than conventional options while allowing easy adjustments as children grow. The designs are open-source and have been replicated in 17 countries.

Almuqrin's initiative began after witnessing the lack of accessible prosthetics in Yemen during his university studies. His team developed the SmartSocket technology, a pressure-sensing interface that improves comfort and functionality. In 2022, he partnered with UNICEF to establish regional manufacturing hubs in Lebanon and Gaza, creating local jobs for engineers.

His 2023 invention, the SmartLeg Prosthesis, uses AI-driven gait analysis to adapt to different terrains. Almuqrin's work was featured in the BBC documentary series "Innovators of the Middle East". He recently established the Engineering for Humanity scholarship fund to support young inventors from conflict regions.