Abu Dhabi welcomes global tech talent for a three-day coding sprint packed with purpose, passion, and quantum breakthroughs
The countdown is on! From 25 to 27 April 25 , NYU Abu Dhabi is flipping the switch on one of the most exciting tech events of the year: the 13th edition of the NYUAD International Hackathon for Social Good.
This isn’t just any hackathon. It’s where over 200 students from 50 countries gather in Abu Dhabi to use the power of quantum computing, AI, and some serious brainpower to solve real-world problems.
View this post on Instagram
Think clean energy, healthcare access, climate change, basically, the stuff that really matters.
The theme?
Big tech for bigger purpose. This year’s event aligns perfectly with both the UAE’s Year of Community and the UN’s International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (yep, that’s a thing), with every project designed to create positive impact for the GCC region and beyond.
So, what actually happens?
Students team up and dive into a high-energy, three-day challenge to develop tech solutions with real-world impact. They’ll be working in the fields of quantum computing, AI, machine learning, data science, cybersecurity, and more, all while being mentored by global experts from places like Google, Microsoft, MIT, CERN, ETH Zurich and Stanford.
From virtual prep sessions and quantum certification to live mentoring, lightning talks, and hands-on coding marathons.
You might also like: How Abu Dhabi’s top schools are championing art and creative learning
It’s kind of a big deal
Since kicking off over a decade ago, the NYUAD Hackathon has become a major player on the global tech scene.
More than 1,000 students from 50+ countries have participated over the years, with many going on to land scholarships, start companies, or launch careers in quantum tech. And yes,some of the ideas born here have made it way past the pitch deck stage.
This year’s hackathon is also extra special, tapping into the fast-growing quantum research ecosystem in the UAE, and highlighting NYUAD’s position as a rising hub for innovation in the region.
How to attend NYUAD Hackathon
If you’re in Abu Dhabi, you can attend the final presentations and award ceremony on 27 April, which is open to the public and free to attend.
Expect smart ideas, passionate pitches, and a showcase of how technology can actually do good in the world.
From coding to community, algorithms to impact, the NYUAD Hackathon 2025 is where tech talent meets global change. And it’s all happening right here in Abu Dhabi.
Ready to be inspired?
Follow Yalla for all the latest education news