Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Launches 7th ‘Innovators’ Competition

Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences has announced the commencement of registration for the 7th ‘Innovators’ competition. This annual event targets individuals aged 18 and above who are passionate about innovation and have practical, groundbreaking ideas. Designed to foster creativity and innovation, the competition provides participants with the opportunity to develop their concepts into tangible projects through the Foundation’s Fab Lab UAE. The deadline for submissions is July 27.

Dr. Khalifa Al Suwaidi, Secretary-General and CEO of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, stated, “We are delighted to launch the seventh edition of the ‘Innovators’ competition. This initiative is designed to provide essential support to innovative students and create an environment conducive to developing and applying their ideas through Fab Lab UAE. The Foundation is dedicated to offering all the necessary tools and resources to facilitate the execution of their innovative plans. This initiative is in line with our mission to foster innovation and excellence among students, aligning with the visionary leadership’s strategic plans to enhance future preparedness by emphasizing excellence in education, scientific and technological advancements. Our goal is to graduate competent generations who will contribute to the UAE’s global reputation for quality education, talent, and innovation.”

Dr. Al Suwaidi further added, “We invite all eligible innovators to participate in this edition to benefit from the support and opportunities provided by the Foundation to advance their

innovative journey, lead innovation, and shape the future of science and inventions across various life sectors.”

HE Al Suwaidi highlighted that the judging panel consists of a distinguished group of experts who will evaluate the projects in multiple stages. The process begins with the submission of project plans by participants, followed by the assessment of the executed projects in Fab Lab UAE, and culminating in the selection of the winning innovative projects.

Fab Lab UAE was established as an initiative by Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, based on the comprehensive national innovation strategy launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. It is the first comprehensive educational innovation lab in the UAE, holding membership in the global Fab Lab network, accredited according to international standards and specifications of Fab Lab centers worldwide. Fab Lab UAE aims to prepare a generation of Emirati innovators, foster a culture of creativity and digital manufacturing, and qualify Fab Lab leaders in the field of digital manufacturing. Additionally, it seeks to create a supportive environment for innovation by providing community centers equipped with the latest devices, tools, and programs, and offering training courses in digital manufacturing for all segments of society.

Participants interested in applying to the ‘Innovators’ competition can visit the website www.fablabuae.ae to download the guide and access detailed information on the application requirements and fill out the participation form.