Innovative Solutions for Water Scarcity
The UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia UAE) announced an extension for the submission deadline of the fifth cycle of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award to 30 September 2026, following numerous requests from participants. This decision aims to facilitate wider participation globally.
Launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the award is managed under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives by Suqia UAE. It seeks to advance research and development efforts focused on creating sustainable solutions to the global water crisis using renewable energy.
The fifth cycle emphasises digital transformation, prioritizing the use of artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms. This approach aims to enhance proactive monitoring and improve operational efficiency, reflecting the award’s commitment to addressing human needs while keeping pace with global technological advancements.
Award Categories and Prize Details
With a total prize value of USD 1 million, the award features four main categories: Innovative Projects Award, Innovative Research and Development Award, Innovative Individual Award, and Innovative Crisis Solutions Award. The largest share, USD 540,000, is allocated to the Innovative Projects Award, with USD 300,000 for large projects and USD 240,000 for small projects.
The Innovative Research and Development Award totals USD 400,000, divided equally between national and international institutions. Meanwhile, the Innovative Individual Award offers USD 40,000, split evenly between the Distinguished Researcher Award and the Youth Award. USD 20,000 is allocated to the Innovative Crisis Solutions Award.
Since its inception, the award has recognised 43 winners from 26 countries for their pioneering work in water production, desalination, and purification over the last four cycles. The fourth cycle’s projects have benefited millions and have been implemented in countries such as Tunisia, Egypt, Botswana, Vietnam, Laos, and several others.
Participants can apply for the award through the online portal at https://www.mbrwateraward.ae/en/awards. Inquiries can be directed to the provided contact email. The extended deadline allows potential participants ample time to develop and submit their innovative projects.
