Zayed Sustainability Prize Opens Submissions for 2027 Cycle to Support Global Innovation
Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: The Zayed Sustainability Prize, an affiliate of Erth Zayed Philanthropies and the UAE’s flagship global award for sustainability and humanitarian innovation, has opened submissions for its 2027 cycle.
The Prize carries forward the vision and legacy of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, by supporting initiatives that advance a more inclusive and sustainable world.
Now in its 18th year and backed by a total fund of US$7.2 million, the Prize invites small and medium enterprises, nonprofit organizations, and high schools to submit innovative solutions across six categories: Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action, and Global High Schools.
Commenting on the launch, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Director-General of the Zayed Sustainability Prize, said the initiative reflects the UAE’s commitment to advancing solutions that deliver measurable impact. He emphasized that the Prize supports a wide range of innovations, from community-driven approaches to advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, aimed at improving lives and reaching the most vulnerable populations.
Over nearly two decades, the Prize has contributed to improving the lives of more than 400 million people worldwide, supporting projects that expand access to renewable energy and affordable healthcare, enhance food and water security, and strengthen resilience in vulnerable regions.
Submissions must demonstrate proven results and meet the evaluation criteria of impact, innovation, and inspiration. Entries are accepted in seven languages—Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish—to encourage broad global participation.
Winners in each of the five organizational categories will receive US$1 million, while recipients in the Global High Schools category will be awarded US$150,000 to implement or expand student-led community projects.
Beginning with the 2026 cycle, the Prize introduced an enhanced funding model under which all finalists receive financial support. The Prize now commits US$1.3 million to finalists, providing US$100,000 to each organization across the Health, Food, Energy, Water, and Climate Action categories, and US$25,000 to each school in the Global High Schools category.
All entries undergo a three-stage evaluation process, starting with a due-diligence review to assess eligibility and core criteria, followed by detailed assessments by independent expert panels. Finalists are then reviewed by the Prize Jury, which selects the winners across all six categories.
The deadline for applications is June 15, 2026. Winners will be announced at the 2027 Zayed Sustainability Prize Awards Ceremony. Further information is available at www.ZayedSustainabilityPrize.com.
