Etihad Rail, developer and operator of the UAE’s National Railway Network, has announced the launch of the Global Rail Youth Hackathon 2025, a two-day competition aimed at inspiring innovative solutions for the future of rail and infrastructure.
The event will take place from 1–2 October 2025 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) as part of the Global Rail 2025 programme.
Global Rail Youth Hackathon 2025: Platform for youth innovation
The hackathon is set to bring together around 50 students and recent graduates, giving them the opportunity to address real-world challenges inspired by the UAE’s rail ecosystem. Guided by mentors and industry experts, participants will work in teams to design and present solutions that combine creativity with feasibility.
Etihad Rail has positioned the hackathon as a platform for youth empowerment and digital transformation, aligned with the UAE’s vision to encourage innovation and sustainable development across key infrastructure sectors.
Judging and recognition
Submissions will be evaluated by a panel of judges drawn from Etihad Rail, academia, industry, and the public sector. Entries will be assessed against criteria such as creativity, impact, feasibility, and the innovative use of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
Winning teams will be recognised at the conclusion of the event, with cash prizes awarded to the most impactful solutions.
Driving sustainable mobility
Ahmed Al Musawa Al Hashemi, CEO of Hafeet Rail and Chairman of the Executive Committee of Global Rail, commented:
“The Global Rail Youth Hackathon 2025 reflects Etihad Rail’s commitment to inspire and accelerate transformative solutions in transport, mobility and logistics. By creating a space where young people can apply their ideas to real-world challenges, we are shaping a new generation of innovators who will drive smarter, more sustainable mobility solutions. This hackathon is a celebration of youth, creativity, and the role they play in building the future of rail and infrastructure.”
Selected participants will be organised into groups of four to five and provided with expert mentorship. Over the course of the two days, teams will develop their concepts and deliver pitches to the judging panel, demonstrating practical applications for rail and mobility innovation.
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