The European Union Delegation to the UAE and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi are organizing the AI for Sustainability Hackathon, a one-day challenge for university students to create AI-powered solutions for urgent environmental issues. The event, which will be held on October 6, 2025, at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, is a unique opportunity for students to turn bold ideas into real-world impact.
Program Overview and Mission
The AI for Sustainability Hackathon will bring together bright young minds from across the country for a thrilling one-day challenge. The mission is to encourage students to team up, create AI-powered solutions to tackle sustainability challenges, and pitch their ideas to top industry experts from the EU and the UAE.
The Challenge
Participants are required to develop AI-driven solutions that align with at least one of the following key UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):
- Climate Action (SDG13): ClimateTech, renewable energy, and carbon capture solutions.
- Affordable & Clean Energy (SDG7): Smart energy management systems.
- Responsible Consumption & Production (SDG12): AI for waste sorting and recycling optimization.
- Sustainable Cities & Communities (SDG11): Enhancing public transportation and monitoring air and water quality.
- Clean Water & Sanitation (SDG6): Solutions for water conservation and wastewater treatment.
What Participants Will Receive
This is an opportunity for students to build innovative AI projects and connect with industry leaders. Participants will receive:
- Mentorship from leading AI professionals and industry insiders.
- The chance to compete for awards and recognition from industry experts and EU diplomats.
- An opportunity to take the lead in advancing women’s role in technology.
Who Can Join?
The hackathon is open to Bachelor’s and Master’s degree students from various disciplines, including Computer Science, Machine Learning, Engineering, and Environmental Science. The team requirements are:
- Teams must be composed of 3-5 students.
- The team leader must be a female student. Teams can be all-female, majority-female, or mixed, but must be female-led.
How to Register
Application Deadline: A specific deadline has not been announced. Interested students are encouraged to register as soon as possible.
How to Register: You can register your team here.
About the Organizers
The hackathon is organized by the Delegation of the European Union to the United Arab Emirates and Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, and youth empowerment.
