Khalifa University of Science and Technology, a leading research institution in the UAE, is showcasing a portfolio of advanced solutions in artificial intelligence, sustainability, and water technology at the World Future Energy Summit 2026. The event, a key component of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, provides a platform for the university to present innovations with significant local and global applications.
The projects on display at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) highlight the university’s focus on translating deep research into practical solutions for pressing environmental challenges.
Professor Bayan Sharif, Provost at Khalifa University, said: “The Khalifa University projects being showcased at the World Future Energy Summit 2026 illustrate some of the most transformative technologies in artificial intelligence and sustainability, emanating from our core research centers. By merging artificial intelligence with breakthrough solutions in water, energy, and agriculture, we are shaping a world where smart systems and green practices work hand in hand to secure the planet for future generations.”
Bridging Research and Commercialization
A key focus of the university’s presence is the commercial potential of its research, driven by its commercial arm, Khalifa University Enterprises Company (KUEC). KUEC is presenting two investment-ready technologies designed for market entry and scalable deployment.
The first is a sustainable soil enhancement solution developed from plant-based waste fibers. This technology aims to improve water retention and erosion resistance in arid agricultural environments, reducing irrigation needs and supporting desert greening initiatives.
The second project addresses the growing problem of solar panel waste. It features a solvent-based delamination process to efficiently recycle photovoltaic (PV) modules, recovering valuable materials like silicon and glass to support the circular economy.
Innovations in Water and Waste Management
Among the core research projects is ‘IntelliBin’, an AI-powered autonomous material sorter. With an impressive 97% accuracy rate on unseen images, the system is designed to improve waste segregation, increase recycling rates, and support the UAE’s 2030 Green Agenda. The model is being optimized for low-resource devices and has potential applications in medical waste management.
In the water sector, researchers are developing nanosheet-integrated hybrid membranes for water treatment and desalination. These advanced membranes are designed to be self-cleaning and sens-equipped, aiming to improve separation efficiency while reducing the energy consumption and operational footprint of desalination plants.
Fostering Future Energy Leaders
Beyond technology showcases, the university is actively nurturing the next generation of industry leaders. Members of its flagship outreach program, the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL), are participating in debates, presenting project proposals, and engaging with business leaders throughout the summit.
Professor Samuel Mao, Director of the ASPIRE Research Institute for Sustainable Energy, will also contribute to high-level dialogues and serve as a judge for the Y4S Innovation Program, evaluating sustainability-driven projects from youth-led teams.
About Khalifa University of Science and Technology
Khalifa University of Science and Technology is the UAE’s top-ranked research-intensive institution, focusing on developing world leaders and critical thinkers in science, engineering, and health science. The university aims to be a catalyst for the growth of Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s knowledge economy.
About Khalifa University Enterprises Company
Khalifa University Enterprises Company (KUEC), wholly owned by Khalifa University, was activated in 2024. Its mission is to commercialize the intellectual and physical assets of the university and invest in STEM-related companies to build a robust startup ecosystem in Abu Dhabi.
Source: Zawya
