H.H. Sheikh Hamdan unveils 'Dubai Future Solutions' initiative

A new initiative launched in Dubai offers prize money of up to US$10 million for coming up with innovative solutions for future challenges.

'Dubai Future Solutions' was announced by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.

The global initiative will feature a series of challenges that will bring together scientists, designers, inventors, universities, research centres, companies and startups from around the world to create innovative solutions for improving people’s lives.

It aims to enhance Dubai’s position on the global innovation map and accelerate the implementation of emerging technologies in designing its future.

"Dubai always has been and continues to be a place that nurtures innovation, and we seek to constantly explore ways to further enhance the emirate's position on the global innovation map," said Sheikh Hamdan.

.@HamdanMohammed launches Dubai Future Solutions, a global initiative aimed at creating innovative solutions for improving people’s lives.https://t.co/ss7NBQx1RJ pic.twitter.com/Xqe0gz33Ko

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) October 11, 2021

.@HamdanMohammed: The initiative follows directives by @HHShkMohd to scale up @DubaiFuture Foundation’s successful experience in acceleration programs, innovative projects, & promoting an innovative mindset to take solutions from local to global.

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) October 11, 2021

Global reach

Aimed at developing solutions to the most pressing challenges facing vital sectors with a focus on energy, transportation, health, education, AI and data, the initiative allows innovators to test their pioneering ideas within Dubai’s integrated innovation ecosystem.

In recent years, Dubai has evolved into a leading global hub for testing, developing and implementing emerging technologies, making the city an ideal platform for the initiative.

More efficient batteries

The first round of Dubai Future Solutions is the “Extreme Weatherproof Batteries Challenge” that focuses on improving the performance and durability of batteries in harsh weather, thus enhancing their use in sectors such as space or oil and gas, and areas with extreme weather conditions.

The challenge responds to the world’s increasing dependence on batteries, whether in drones, portable devices, electric cars or spacecraft, which has created the need to come up with new sustainable solutions to generate and store clean energy.

Companies and research centres across the globe are racing to develop cheaper, denser, lighter and more powerful batteries.

Selection committee

A specialised committee comprising experts in various sectors will evaluate the entries according to a set of criteria, including quality, scalability for development and practical application, economic feasibility and adaptability to changing requirements.

Invitation to innovators

Interested participants can submit their ideas online. The proposed solutions must be efficient, cost-effective, versatile and ready for immediate implementation.