AWARD
3rd CYCLE ANNOUNCEMENT
In the 1st and 2nd cycles of the award, 20 applicants, including individuals, pioneering organisations, and research centres, were awarded for their innovative models that produce clean water using solar power. While the two previous cycles were successful, Suqia UAE is pleased to announce the expansion of the scope of the award to include new technologies that produce, distribute, store, monitor, desalinate and purify water using renewable energy.
A renewable energy source includes solar, wind, biomass, ocean, gradient salinity and geothermal technologies. It excludes nuclear energy and carbon capture and storage systems.
For the 3rd cycle, we have introduced a new category, the ‘Innovative Crisis Solutions Award,’ to recognise innovations that can provide relief within the most critical 48 hours after internationally declared emergency situations. We believe that rapid access to safe drinking water becomes a crucial element for survival in crises and natural disasters.
In January 2023, 11 winners from 8 countries were awarded in the 3rd cycle for their innovations and technologies that provide clean water using renewable energy.
ABOUT THE AWARD
Suqia’s goal is not limited to the provision of potable water to those in need. We also identify how innovative and sustainable technologies can be part of the solution to the global water crisis. We understand that the scale of the water crisis demands different approaches that extend beyond giving water. This is why, in line with the UAE’s goal to become a knowledge-based economy with a strong focus on technology, R&D and innovation, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched a USD1 million global award to find sustainable solutions to water scarcity.
The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award supports research and development of new and innovative technologies that produce, distribute, store, monitor, desalinate and purify water using renewable energy to support the global position of the UAE in developing solutions for challenges that are faced by poverty- and disaster-stricken communities worldwide.
The biennial Award encourages leading corporations, research centres, institutions, the youth and innovators from across the world to compete in finding sustainable and innovative solutions to the problem of water scarcity. Until today and in two cycles, we awarded bright minds from around the world for their pioneering in water desalination and purification systems to overcome the world’s water crisis.
AWARD VISION
Water is a fundamental human need and a driver for sustainable growth, yet water scarcity affects more than 40% of the global population. These numbers are even projected to rise, especially for communities in rural and poor urban areas. Providing access to potable water gives hope, increases happiness and improves life by enabling children to thrive.
International organisations have joined efforts to find solutions to address water scarcity, from establishing humanitarian aid and awareness campaigns, to setting sustainable goals worldwide to achieve water security. The UAE has established a global position in actively finding real solutions to ensure access to safe drinking water.
The launch of the award reflects His Highness' vision for the UAE to be one of the most innovative nations in the world, by creating a platform that showcases cost-effective and renewable energy powered sustainable solutions that can meet the needs of the developing communities lacking access to the most basic of our needs, clean drinking water.
At Suqia, we believe that innovation and sustainability can be part of the solution to the global water crisis and help overcome the challenges faced in communities in need.
WITH INNOVATION, WE CAN BUILD STATES AND INSTITUTIONS; THE FUTURE BELONGS TO THOSE WITH NEW IDEAS.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai
AWARD CATEGORIES
