Etihad Rail has launched the second edition of its Global Rail Innovation Award, offering a Dhs1 million grant to promote advancements in transport, mobility, and logistics.
The award is open to startups, researchers, and innovators from around the world. Finalists will be recognised at the Global Rail Transport Infrastructure Exhibition & Conference 2025, scheduled to take place from September 30 to October 2 at ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi.
Focus on global innovation
The initiative reflects Etihad Rail’s broader goal of encouraging innovation within the rail and mobility sectors while strengthening the UAE’s position in global transport development.
Solutions submitted will be evaluated on technical originality, commercial potential, scalability, and how well they align with future transport needs.
Eligibility and deadlines
Entries are being accepted from technology firms, academic institutions, and independent innovators. The deadline for submissions is July 31, 2025. Finalists will present their solutions during the ADNEC event, where winners will also be announced.
Previous winners spotlighted
Last year’s competition attracted over 75 entries from around the world. Past winners include:
CEMIT for “Monitoring in Motion,” which offers real-time ride comfort and infrastructure insights
LTTS for its AI-based rail defect detection system
SYSTRA for creating a predictive digital twin model for railway infrastructure
Industry exposure for finalists
Winners will gain international exposure at the upcoming conference, which attracts senior government officials, investors, and transport industry leaders. Their solutions will also be featured in the conference agenda and related technical sessions.
“By launching the second edition of the Global Rail Innovation Award, we continue to support groundbreaking ideas that can shape the future of transportation and logistics,” Etihad Rail said in a statement.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
