Dubai Airport Freezone (DAFZ), part of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), successfully concluded its AI Innovation Forum and Hackathon, a major event held as part of Dubai AI Week. Focused on exploring AI-powered solutions to pressing business challenges, the two-day event took place at DAFZ Square – Business Center, in collaboration with Wellington Campus in Dubai CommerCity, and in partnership with SAP, Deloitte, and Vtex.
Bringing together global experts in artificial intelligence, consulting, and digital commerce, alongside a select group of university students from across Dubai, the forum served as a dynamic platform to foster AI adoption and talent development. Amna Lootah, Director General at Dubai Airport Freezone, emphasized DAFZ’s commitment to creating an integrated environment that empowers businesses and young innovators to leverage AI for growth and transformation. She highlighted that the event aligns with the UAE’s National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and Dubai’s Universal Blueprint for Artificial Intelligence.
The first day featured an AI Hackathon under the theme “Exploring Solutions for the Future of Supply Chain,” where university students collaborated in teams to develop AI-driven solutions for real-world logistics and supply chain challenges. Guided by expert mentors and engineers, participants applied advanced technologies to devise practical solutions. Abdulrahim Ghulam Nabi, Senior Advisor at DAFZ, opened the hackathon with a keynote that set the tone for an inspiring day of innovation and collaboration.
The second day hosted the AI Forum themed “AI Strategies for the Future,” with keynote speeches and panel discussions led by experts from SAP, Deloitte, VTEX, Vue.ai, and qeen.ai. Industry leaders from Dubai CommerCity, Aramex, Dubai Customs, and Tradeling also shared insights into AI integration in e-commerce, customer experience, and operational efficiency. Discussions focused on key challenges in AI adoption, the importance of flexible digital infrastructure, and maintaining the human element amidst technological advancement.
At the conclusion of the forum, participating teams presented their projects to a judging panel composed of senior executives and AI experts. Solutions were evaluated for innovation, feasibility, and real-world relevance. The winning team was awarded internships within DIEZ and monetary prizes, reaffirming DAFZ’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of AI talent and driving forward Dubai’s leadership in innovation and digital transformation.
