Dubai Chamber Of Digital Economy Unveils Third Edition Of Create Apps Championship To Foster Innovation

Dubai is solidifying its position as a global leader in digital transformation, driven by the vision of H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum highlighted this during the launch of the third edition of the ‘Create Apps Championship’. This initiative, part of the Create Apps in Dubai programme, has been instrumental since 2023 in fostering innovation and supporting tech talent.

The first two editions of the challenge saw over 5,800 applications from innovators and digital entrepreneurs. It facilitated the development and launch of more than 55 smart applications, playing a crucial role in empowering tech talent and nurturing innovative ideas within Dubai's digital economy ecosystem.

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan stated, "Dubai continues to advance as a leader in innovation, developing pioneering solutions that drive its digital transformation journey." He emphasised that these initiatives are key to realising H.H. Sheikh Mohammed’s vision to make Dubai the global capital of the digital economy by fostering an environment that empowers talent and inspires creativity.

The emirate's development model promotes collaboration between public and private sectors, aiming for comprehensive growth to meet Dubai’s ambitious objectives. This model supports world-class infrastructure and agile legal frameworks that empower businesses and inspire future smart applications.

Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications, noted that under H.H. Sheikh Hamdan's directives, the ‘Create Apps Championship’ has become a leading initiative celebrating creativity and innovation. It attracts exceptional minds globally, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a hub for technological innovation.

New Awards and Programmes

This year introduces the ‘Longevity App of the Year’ award, recognising apps that enhance wellbeing through innovations in fitness, wellness, and lifestyle. This aligns with national priorities to improve quality of life and build a future-ready society.

The championship also launches an Alumni Accelerator Programme to support high-potential teams from the competition. By providing access to business accelerators, it aims to help these teams complete their projects and launch 50 additional fully developed applications in the market.

Comprehensive Support for Innovators

A dedicated hub will be established for participants offering tailored training, mentorship, and expert guidance. This hub will introduce best practices to accelerate idea growth and project development.

The ‘Create Apps Championship’ features four main categories: Best Youth App, Most Impactful App, Most Innovative App, and Longevity App of the Year award. The competition offers funding packages exceeding AED2.5 million to support app development and market entry.

Winners in three categories will receive over AED550,000 each to fast-track app development. The fourth winner will claim both the ‘App of the Year’ title based on public voting and a grand prize of AED1 million to significantly aid app development.

The Create Apps Championship is now open for registrations.

With inputs from WAM