The UAE Water Aid Foundation (Suqia UAE), operating under the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, has announced the extension of the application deadline for the 4th cycle of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award. With total prizes amounting to USD 1 million, the award aims to discover sustainable and innovative solutions to combat water scarcity worldwide. Companies, research and development centers, institutes, innovators, and youth are invited to submit their applications until May 31, 2024.

The award encourages the development of innovative projects, technologies, and prototypes in water desalination and purification using renewable energy sources. These sources include solar, wind, biomass, hydropower, osmotic power, and geothermal technologies.

The initiative reflects the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in addressing water scarcity challenges globally. The aim is to find sustainable solutions to ensure the availability of fresh water for impoverished and afflicted communities worldwide, supporting a brighter future for generations to come. Moreover, the award aligns with Goal 6 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030, which advocates for clean water and sanitation for all, by fostering innovation and investing in the latest technologies to aid less developed societies in achieving sustainable development.

Throughout the past three cycles of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Water Award, 31 winners from 22 countries have been rewarded. The award encompasses four main categories: the Innovative Projects Award (comprising the Large Projects Award and the Small Projects Award), the Innovative Research and Development Award (encompassing the National Institutions Award and the International Institutions Award), the Innovative Individual Award (including the Distinguished Research Award and the Youth Award), and the Innovative Crisis Solutions Award.

Companies, research centers, institutes, innovators, and youth worldwide who have devised innovative technologies to tackle water scarcity challenges are encouraged to register for the award through the official website: https://www.suqia.ae/.