Khalifa University of Science and Technology has registered 1,398 university students from 56 countries to participate in the Khalifa University–UNESCO Global Water Hackathon 2026. The event, which started on September 7, 2026, aims to engage a new generation of innovators in addressing global water sustainability challenges and will run through December 10, 2026.

The hackathon is part of a broader series of water-focused initiatives led by Khalifa University as the United Arab Emirates prepares to host the 2026 UN Water Conference in Abu Dhabi from December 8 to 10. The conference, co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal, will bring together global leaders, policymakers, and innovators to advance efforts on water security.

The competition is coordinated by Khalifa University’s Centre for Membranes and Advanced Water Technology (CMAT) and involves 238 teams formed by the participants. Selected teams will enter the next phase of the hackathon, which emphasizes the development, testing, and refinement of practical solutions. Participants will benefit from a structured research framework supported by academic advisers, technical specialists, and industry mentors. This collaborative approach aims to guide teams through problem framing, validation, and technical review to transform initial concepts into viable solutions addressing pressing water issues.

Khalifa University’s efforts complement other initiatives such as Youth4Water and the UNESCO Chair on Global Water Resilience, Innovation, and Sustainable Solutions. Collectively, these platforms foster collaboration between scientific experts and emerging talent, reinforcing the global agenda on water sustainability. The hackathon’s conclusion will coincide with an awards ceremony during the UN Water Conference, highlighting the innovative ideas and research developed throughout the competition.