Zayed University Joins the Innovation Hackathon 2025 as the Official Host
In a significant move that signals growing institutional commitment to youth innovation, Zayed University has officially partnered with The Technology Express, a leading publication of Mcfill Media & Publishing Group to host the Innovation Hackathon 2025, a three-day UAE-wide initiative aimed at empowering university students to solve real-world challenges using technology and design thinking. The event will take place from 18th to 20th October 2025 at Zayed University’s Dubai Campus.
The Innovation Hackathon is positioned by McFill Media & Publishing Group as a regional benchmark for university-level innovation programs. With Zayed University stepping in as the host partner, the Innovation Hackathon will take place at the university’s state-of-the-art Dubai Campus, offering a dynamic, future-focused environment that reflects the spirit of the hackathon itself.
The Innovation Hackathon will feature a multi-track format, comprising 10 distinct challenge tracks, each focused on a key technology-driven theme, from artificial intelligence and responsible innovation, to urban mobility, smart logistics, fintech, and beyond. Each group will tackle a real-world challenge presented by industry and government partners, working alongside mentors and tech experts to develop practical, scalable solutions over the course of three days.
In parallel with the Innovation Hackathon, the event will feature an Innovation Hub and learning spaces to deliver a full-scale experiential learning program designed for students from universities across the UAE. While selected participants will be engaged in the hackathon itself, the wider campus will host a curated schedule of workshops, panel discussions, fireside chats, and experiential learning, welcoming students who wish to explore technology in-depth, and aim to hone their skills in shaping the future of business, government, and society.
Led by industry experts, startup founders, and government leaders, these sessions are crafted to offer insights into real-world innovations. Topics will cover emerging technologies, market disruptions, regulatory shifts, and career pathways in innovation-driven fields. This initiative ensures that every university student, regardless of their major or technical skill level, has a chance to immerse themselves in the innovation ecosystem. Registrations for the workshops and sessions will be done at the venue.
Students interested in applying to be part of the hackathon will be able to register through an online application process, with selections based on interest, motivation, and alignment with the themes of the tracks. Through this inclusive model, the Innovation Hackathon aims to not only prototype new solutions, but also ignite curiosity and ambition among students from all backgrounds and disciplines across the UAE.
