Global Water Award by Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

The UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia UAE), a part of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has announced an extension of the deadline for applications to the 4th cycle of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award. The total prize money for this cycle is set at USD 1 million.

The objective of this prestigious award is to recognize innovative and sustainable solutions to the global water scarcity issue. Interested individuals, businesses, research institutions, innovators, and young people worldwide are invited to submit their applications by the end of May 2024.

The focus of the award is on encouraging the development of new ideas, techniques, and prototypes for water desalination and purification using renewable energy sources such as geothermal, biomass, solar, wind, hydropower, and osmotic power.

The initiative was envisioned by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, with the aim of finding long-term solutions to ensure access to clean water for the most affected populations and disadvantaged regions globally.

Aligned with Goal 6 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030, which aims to ensure clean water and sanitation for all, this award supports efforts to assist less developed societies in achieving sustainable development through innovation and investment in advanced technologies.

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award has garnered interest from academic institutions, research facilities, and entrepreneurs worldwide, serving as a platform for the creation of viable, sustainable solutions to the global water crisis using renewable energy. Over the past three cycles, the award has recognized 31 winners from 22 different nations.

The award is divided into four main categories: Innovative Projects (including Large Projects and Small Projects Awards), Innovative Research and Development (comprising National Institutions and International Institutions Awards), Innovative Individual (including Youth and Distinguished Research Awards), and Innovative Crisis Solutions.