In Abu Dhabi, Khalifa University of Science and Technology announced that 63 teams from 26 countries have been shortlisted for the Khalifa University–UNESCO Global Water Hackathon 2026. The hackathon is a competition aimed at advancing water innovation ahead of the 2026 United Nations Water Conference.
The shortlist came after an initial registration of 238 teams from 56 countries. 45 of the 63 teams come from outside the UAE, making them 71 percent of the shortlist.
The 63 teams will compete in six water‑innovation themes: Smart, Digital and AI‑Enabled Water Systems; Water Reuse, Circularity and Resource Efficiency; Water Security and Sustainable Desalination; Energy–Water Nexus and Climate Resilience; Water Quality, Health and Environmental Protection; and Integrated Water Systems, Governance and Cooperation.
The event is organised by Khalifa University’s Centre for Membranes and Advanced Water Technology, UNESCO and Youth4Water, a UNESCO flagship initiative. The winners will receive awards at the UN Water Conference in December.
Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, said,
"The participation of shortlisted teams from 26 countries demonstrates the value of international cooperation in advancing water innovation. Through this Hackathon, Khalifa University is connecting emerging talent with scientific expertise and opportunities to develop solutions that respond to shared water challenges."
