– Launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2024 with the aim to fund bold, future-oriented research projects in Dubai.
The Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) is making waves once again with the opening of applications for the second cycle of the Dubai Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Grant Initiative. This initiative is a golden opportunity for universities and research institutions in Dubai to submit innovative proposals aimed at driving substantial progress across technology, economy, society, and innovation. The focus is not just on immediate goals but on laying the groundwork for a future that is both sustainable and thriving.
This initiative collaborates with both local and international academic institutions, underscoring its commitment to research that aligns with Dubai’s national priorities and future strategies. It’s an ambitious initiative designed to stimulate cutting-edge research in fields that will shape not just the Emirates, but also the globe.
For this cycle, the initiative shines a spotlight on two major domains: **Cognitive Cities** and **Health & Life Sciences**. Each domain features four critical topics that harness the latest advancements in technology, making them perfect for researchers looking to delve into exciting and impactful areas of study.
The first domain, “**Cognitive Cities**,” invites research that explores smart mobility solutions, next-generation built environments, climate-neutral urban systems, and urban health intelligence aimed at enhancing well-being. This area is pivotal as cities worldwide grapple with increased urbanization and climate change challenges, and the solutions developed here could set a blueprint for the future.
On the other hand, the “**Health & Life Sciences**” domain tackles four essential topics: biological discovery and systems science, clinical and translational health, health innovation and engineering, and biomanufacturing and synthetic biology. Given the rapid pace of advancements in healthcare, this domain is crucial for fostering innovations that can lead to breakthroughs in patient care and health outcomes.
Each submitted proposal will undergo a rigorous evaluation process, considering criteria such as alignment with Dubai’s RDI priority areas, potential for fostering future partnerships, innovation in methodology and outcomes, and budget viability. This comprehensive evaluation ensures that only the most promising and impactful projects receive funding.
Applications are currently open, with a submission deadline set for Friday, 13 June 2025. Interested parties can apply via www.dubairdi.ae. Shortlisted applicants will not only have the opportunity to submit full proposals but also stand to receive financial support for project timelines ranging from one to three years.
Reflecting on the success of the first cycle, the initiative funded 24 research projects originating from 13 universities and research institutions. These projects were selected from 374 innovative proposals submitted by 41 academic entities, highlighting a vibrant competitive spirit in Dubai’s academic landscape. A total of 219 researchers were involved, exploring themes that included Future Cities and Health and Life Sciences, with a strong emphasis on the applications of AI and robotics.
This initiative, which was launched in September 2024 by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aligns perfectly with Dubai’s ambition to position itself as a global leader in innovation. As the Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation, Sheikh Hamdan is keenly aware of the vital role that research and innovation play in shaping a resilient and competitive economy.
Khalifa Al Qama, Executive Director at Dubai Future Labs, DFF, stated, “The initiative is designed to support researchers and innovators, foster RDI opportunities in Dubai, and advance future prospects through high-quality, knowledge-driven, and technologically advanced research.” His vision aligns with creating an avenue for pioneering ideas to flourish, offering both technical direction and essential financial support.
Moreover, Sheikh Hamdan has recently approved the goals of Phase Two of the Dubai Research and Development Programme, allocating a massive AED 750 million to accelerate its development. This funding aims to enable a diverse and sustainable digital economy, enhancing Dubai’s competitiveness across key future sectors.
With oversight from the DFF, the Dubai RDI Programme is committed to delivering knowledge-based solutions that address both local and global challenges. Its goal is to enhance sector productivity, support emerging industries, and fortify Dubai’s economic resilience and readiness for the future.
For more detailed information and to stay updated about the initiative, please visit: www.dubairdi.ae.
