UAE AI Award 2025: Second Edition Now Open for Submissions
Submit your AI innovations until August 31st. Categories include AI Solutions Developed in UAE and Best Government-Private Partnership.
The UAE AI Award returns for its second edition with expanded categories and increased prize pools. This prestigious recognition celebrates groundbreaking AI innovations developed in or for the UAE market.
Award Overview
Key Information
- ►Submission Deadline: August 31, 2025
- ►Total Prize Pool: AED 10 million
- ►Categories: 6 main categories + special recognitions
- ►Winners Announcement: November 2025 at GITEX
Building on the success of the inaugural edition, the 2025 awards expand recognition to include international innovations that benefit the UAE AI ecosystem.
Award Categories
| Category | Focus Area | Prize |
|---|---|---|
| AI Solutions Developed in UAE | Locally developed innovations | AED 2M |
| Best Government-Private Partnership | Collaborative AI implementations like Abu Dhabi's AI transformation | AED 2M |
| AI for Social Good | Healthcare, education, sustainability | AED 1.5M |
| Enterprise AI Innovation | Business transformation solutions | AED 1.5M |
| AI Startup of the Year | Most promising AI venture | AED 1.5M |
| Arabic Language AI | NLP and language models | AED 1.5M |
Eligibility Criteria
General Requirements
- • AI solution must be operational (not conceptual)
- • Demonstrated impact with measurable outcomes
- • Deployed or tested in UAE market
- • Compliant with UAE AI ethics guidelines
For UAE-Developed Solutions
- • Company registered in UAE
- • Majority of development done in UAE
- • At least 50% local team composition
- • Active UAE trade license
For International Submissions
- • Clear benefit to UAE ecosystem
- • Local partnership or deployment
- • Commitment to UAE market expansion
- • Data sovereignty compliance
Evaluation Criteria
Scoring Framework
Submission Process
Step 1: Register on the official portal Step 2: Complete application form Step 3: Upload technical documentation Step 4: Submit demo video (5-10 minutes) Step 5: Provide impact metrics & case studies Step 6: Include letters of support (optional) Step 7: Pay submission fee (AED 500) Step 8: Submit before August 31, 2025
Required Documentation
- • Executive summary (2 pages max)
- • Technical architecture document
- • Business impact report with KPIs
- • User testimonials or case studies
- • Team profiles and credentials
- • Financial projections (for startups)
Benefits Beyond Prize Money
For Winners
- • Fast-track licensing for UAE expansion
- • Government procurement opportunities
- • Media coverage and PR support
- • Access to UAE AI ecosystem including Stargate UAE infrastructure
- • Mentorship from industry leaders
- • Exhibition space at major events
For All Participants
- • Visibility to investors and partners
- • Networking with AI community
- • Feedback from expert judges
- • Inclusion in AI solutions directory
- • Invitation to exclusive events
- • Certificate of participation
Tips for Strong Submissions
Based on feedback from last year's judges, successful submissions demonstrate:
- ✓Clear problem-solution fit with quantifiable impact
- ✓Real-world deployment with user adoption metrics
- ✓Innovative use of AI beyond standard applications
- ✓Strong alignment with UAE's digital transformation goals and government AI initiatives
- ✓Sustainable business model with growth potential
Official Resources & Submission Portal
Need help preparing your submission?
SOO Group has helped multiple clients win AI awards. Let us review your submission and maximize your chances of success. We can also help you leverage the 1 Million AI Talents program to strengthen your team.
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