Zayed University Students Achieve Victory At ADNOC-Bloomberg Energy Investment Academy 2025

Students from Zayed University have emerged victorious in the ADNOC-Bloomberg UAE Energy Investment Academy 2025. This event, part of the annual ADNOC-Bloomberg Trading Challenge, took place during the Abu Dhabi International Petroleum Exhibition & Conference (ADIPEC). It allowed UAE university students to showcase their skills in commodities trading and energy analysis within a real-world setting.

The winning team, 'Moneyfestation,' comprised Hind Al Mheiri, Sarah Al Marri, and Akmal Khuja. They were recognised for their exceptional analytical approach and strategic insights into global commodity markets. As winners, they are eligible for training placements with ADNOC Global Trading in 2026. This year's challenge saw participation from 66 students across four UAE universities, with five teams reaching the final round.

BloombergNEF (BNEF), a strategic research provider focusing on global commodity markets and technologies driving the transition to a low-carbon economy, played a crucial role in designing this phase of the challenge. The 2025 edition delved into the changing landscape of commodities, data centers, and clean-energy technologies. It equipped students with insights into how innovation, sustainability, and artificial intelligence are shaping future global energy systems.

The second phase of this annual trading challenge is part of the ADNOC-Bloomberg for Education Initiative. This collaboration between ADNOC, the Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research, and Bloomberg aims to support the UAE’s upcoming graduates. Competing university teams used Bloomberg Terminals and guidance from BNEF analysts and industry experts to simulate analyst workflows and commodity trading strategies. Their efforts culminated in research reports presented to a jury of energy sector experts.

Saif Ateeq Al Falahi, Director of People, National Identity & Business Support at ADNOC, expressed pride in the participants' performance: "We are proud of the outstanding performance and dedication demonstrated by participants in the ADNOC-Bloomberg Energy Investment Academy Challenge 2025 and warmly congratulate this year’s winners." He emphasised that such challenges provide essential platforms for aspiring UAE trading professionals to gain knowledge and practical experience needed for success in commodity trading and energy analysis.

Rajiv Mirwani, Head of Middle East & Africa at Bloomberg, noted: "The 2025 edition highlights the tremendous ambition and analytical capability of students in the UAE." He added that as innovations like artificial intelligence and clean power solutions reshape the energy landscape, supporting initiatives that equip future generations with necessary tools is vital.

Impact on Education

This collaboration between ADNOC, Bloomberg, and the Ministry of Higher Education has benefited over 9,000 students since its inception. More than 100 Bloomberg Terminals are installed across leading UAE universities — including Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi University, UAE University, New York University Abu Dhabi, and Higher Colleges of Technology — providing hands-on access to global financial and commodity market data.

The initiative continues to empower students by offering them practical experiences that align with current industry trends. By fostering an environment where young talents can thrive through real-world applications of their studies, it contributes significantly to preparing them for future roles within the energy sector.

With inputs from WAM