We’re excited to announce the launch of AI for GCC, a weekly newsletter that makes sense of how artificial intelligence is transforming business, innovation, policy, and everyday life across the Gulf region.
In partnership with
🌟 Special Edition from AI for GCC
Today we bring you a special update outside of our regular Friday briefing.
This edition highlights an exciting opportunity in the Gulf’s Artificial Intelligence scene—one that you don’t want to miss.
Our full Friday Edition will still drop into your inbox with curated news, insights, and tools to help you navigate the future of AI in the region.
But right now, let’s dive into this exclusive announcement.
🌟 AI for GCC إصدار خاص
نقدّم لكم اليوم إصدارًا خاصًا خارج نشرتنا الأسبوعية المعتادة يوم الجمعة.
هذا الإصدار يشارك معكم فرصة مميزة في مجال الذكاء الاصطناعي داخل الخليج، تستحق انتباهكم.
لا تقلقوا، نسخة الجمعة ستصلكم كالمعتاد مع الأخبار والتحليلات والأدوات العملية.
لكن الآن، دعونا نستكشف هذا الخبر الحصري.
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startAD AI for Good Sandbox: Your Chance to Build AI Solutions for Health Equity in the Gulf
A focused, four-week builder challenge backed by Google.org
A powerful opportunity has landed for innovators across the Gulf. startAD, powered by Tamkeen and anchored at NYU Abu Dhabi, is launching the AI for Good Sandbox, a four-week competition where teams create open-source artificial intelligence solutions that address real health challenges in the UAE and Saudi Arabia.
Why it matters now
This is a mission-driven build sprint designed to deliver tools that make a difference for communities. It aligns with national innovation goals and the region’s Vision 2030 focus on health, education, and social impact.
What participants get
Hands-on mentorship from global AI experts
Training and resources, including Google Cloud Skills Boost
Travel and accommodation covered for the in-person final in the UAE
Cash prizes for winners with up to $15,000 for top teams
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Final submission deadline: August 31, 2025.
This challenge arrives at a pivotal moment as the Gulf accelerates tech-driven progress in health, education, and social equity aligned with Vision 2030 goals.
How It Works
startAD runs two focused cohorts. Each team gets four weeks to develop and validate an open-source health solution, then pitch in a virtual semi-final. Finalists advance to a live showcase in the UAE this November in front of leaders, investors, and policy makers.
Cohort
Dates
Cohort 1
Sept 15 – Oct 11, 2025
Cohort 2
Sept 29 – Oct 25, 2025
About startAD
startAD is a nation-building accelerator anchored at NYU Abu Dhabi and powered by Tamkeen. It expands the UAE’s entrepreneurial capacity by equipping founders with tools, networks, and mentorship to scale. Through impact-focused programs across sectors such as HealthTech and smart cities, startAD helps local and global startups thrive in the UAE’s innovation landscape.
Why You Should Apply
Launch Artificial Intelligence projects that address real health challenges in the Gulf.
Gain global exposure, hands-on mentorship, and prize funding.
Contribute to a growing AI ecosystem across the UAE and KSA.
Fast-track your innovation in a high-impact, supportive environment.
What You Need to Know
Apply before August 31, 2025. Submissions are reviewed as they arrive, so early applications are encouraged.
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