About The Hackathon

Today’s Challenges, Tomorrow’s Solutions

 

In a rapidly evolving world driven by transformative technologies, we proudly launch the 8th edition of the UAE Hackathon. This initiative invites innovators from across the UAE to develop groundbreaking solutions to address national challenges and shape a sustainable digital future. Aligned with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan's initiative declaring 2025 as the "Year of Community" under the slogan "Hand in Hand," the hackathon embodies the spirit of collaboration, encouraging participants to co-create solutions that strengthen the fabric of society while advancing national priorities. It also supports key national strategies such as the UAE’s Green Agenda 2030, the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, the 'We the UAE 2031' vision, the UAE Digital Government Strategy 2025, and the UAE Centennial 2071, reflecting the UAE’s unwavering commitment to global leadership in innovation, sustainability, and exploration.

UAE Hackathon, at a glance

 

Recognized as the largest competitive innovation event at the national level, the UAE Hackathon reflects the continuous efforts of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) to promote a culture of digital transformation across the UAE. Now in its 8th edition, this initiative provides a platform for various sectors of the community—including university and high school students, entrepreneurs, employees,  IT experts along with Government and Private sector employees to develop innovative solutions. Participants will address specific themes and challenges designed to align with national priorities and emerging trends.

Grounds for starting out hackathons

 

The UAE is at the forefront of the 4th Industrial Revolution, playing a leading role in embracing and advancing transformative technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and autonomous systems. These cutting-edge innovations are shaping the digital economy and redefining how societies and industries operate.

In alignment with this vision, the UAE’s wise leadership has launched initiatives such as the 4th Industrial Revolution Strategy and the National Innovation Strategy, laying a robust foundation for building a future powered by technological breakthroughs.

The UAE Hackathon is a vital component of these national efforts, spotlighting the immense potential of emerging technologies to address challenges across economic, social, environmental, and scientific domains. It serves as a platform for innovators to explore and create solutions that harness the power of these advancements, driving progress and shaping a more sustainable and advanced future.

UAE Hackathon Organizer

 

The UAE Hackathon is a pioneering initiative introduced by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA). This program reflects TDRA's commitment to fostering community engagement and advancing digital transformation at the federal level.

The UAE Hackathon brings together a diverse range of participants, including local eGovernments across the UAE, several federal government entities, and private sector organizations. A comprehensive list of participating entities will be published on the official UAE Hackathon webpage.

Emerging Technology fields at UAE Hackathon

 

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML)

2. AI Agent

3. Intelligent Chatbots

4. Internet of Things (IoT)

5. Blockchain

6. Cybersecurity Technologies

7. Big Data and Data Analytics

8. Other Trending Technologies

 

 

Hackathon’s Themes

 

In response to the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, may God protect him, the UAE Hackathon aligns its themes with the UAE’s commitment to digital transformation, innovation, and sustainability.

To empower participants across all tracks and enable government entities to collaborate in developing innovative ideas and practical solutions, the UAE Hackathon 2025 focuses on three unifying themes aimed at driving progress toward national priorities:

Theme 1: AI-Powered UAE - harnessing AI and digital transformation to tackle government challenges, enhance services, boost efficiency, and advance sustainability, shaping the UAE’s future vision.

Theme 2: Cyber-Resilient Future - using AI, emerging technologies, and digital transformation to build a cyber-resilient infrastructure in the UAE.

Theme 3: Green by Design - leveraging AI, advanced technoloies and digital transformation to develop innovative solutions that drive sustainability.

These themes reflect the UAE's vision of fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainability while addressing key societal and technological challenges.

The UAE Hackathon 2025 aligns with the We the UAE 2031 plan, addressing key national priorities such as health, advanced technologies, inclusivity, cybersecurity, and sustainability. The Hackathon will also align with the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, bringing together UAE citizens and residents to collaborate on innovative solutions and achieve shared national goals. This initiative reflects the nation's ambitious vision to harness cutting-edge technology and collective creativity for a brighter future.