University Students Across The UAE Invited To Apply For This Year’s Emirates Robotics Competition

University students across the UAE can now apply to participate in the fourth edition of the Emirates Robotics Competition, which is being organized by the government-backed Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) through its Dubai Future Labs initiative, in partnership with the Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai, Khalifa University of Science and Technology, The American University of Sharjah, and Mohammed Bin Rashid Library. 

This year’s edition of the event centers on developing robotic systems that can support operations inside large libraries. Participating teams will be tasked with designing solutions capable of autonomously returning books, encyclopaedias, multimedia materials, and archived content to their designated shelves and storage locations within the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai. 

In a statement, HE Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, said, “The fourth edition of the Emirates Robotics Competition embodies the importance of employing smart technologies and advanced robotics to develop practical solutions that support various vital sectors, including the library and knowledge sector. This challenge represents a distinguished platform that empowers students to apply their engineering and programming knowledge in real operational environments and to develop their skills in the fields of autonomous robots, computer vision, artificial intelligence, and smart navigation systems. At Khalifa University, we believe that such initiatives contribute to preparing national cadres capable of leading the future of technology and innovation, and strengthen the role of universities in supporting the UAE's priorities in the areas of smart automation, digital transformation, and the knowledge economy, in line with the nation's aspirations towards building smarter and more sustainable cities.” 

Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of The American University of Sharjah, noted that robotics and automation have become increasingly important in building more efficient services and future-ready economies. He also highlighted that the competition’s focus on libraries this year reflects the expanding role of robotics in improving public services and operational efficiency, while also giving students the chance to apply their technical knowledge to real-world challenges. 

This year's Emirates Robotics Competition will begin with a simulation phase, during which teams will build and test their robotic systems in a virtual environment. Their methodologies, algorithms, and designs will be assessed before shortlisted participants move to the second stage, where they will deploy and test their systems on physical robotic platforms at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library. At the end of the competition, three winning teams will be selected by a panel of specialists and experts. The selected teams will receive opportunities to join fellowship programs and initiatives led by Dubai Future Foundation and its academic and research partners. 

Applications for the competition are open until May 31, 2026—students can register at this link. 

Image via the Emirates Robotics Competition.