Zayed Sustainability Prize 2027 in UAE 2026

The Zayed Sustainability Prize is a prestigious global award that recognizes and rewards innovators and organizations driving impactful sustainability solutions. 

For the 2027 cycle, the prize offers fully funded opportunities for winners across five categories: Health, Food, Energy, Water, and Climate Action. The award ceremony takes place in the United Arab Emirates in January 2027.

If you are looking for similar funded opportunities in the region, explore fully funded scholarships in UAE for international students.

About the Zayed Sustainability Prize

Established in 2008 in honor of the late founding father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Zayed Sustainability Prize has transformed the lives of over 400 million people worldwide.

It aims to encourage and reward innovative solutions that address pressing global challenges. The prize is open to small and medium‑sized enterprises, non‑profit organizations, and high schools from all countries. Winners receive significant funding to scale their projects and create lasting impact.

Prize Categories and Benefits

The 2027 prize offers fully funded awards in the following categories:

• Health – Innovative solutions that improve access to affordable and quality healthcare

• Food – Projects that combat hunger and promote sustainable agriculture

• Energy – Clean energy solutions that increase access and reduce emissions

• Water – Technologies that ensure safe and sustainable water access

• Climate Action – Initiatives that address climate change mitigation and adaptation

• Global High Schools – Student‑led sustainability projects in six world regions

Each winner receives a substantial monetary prize (up to $600,000 USD for organizational categories and $100,000 for high schools). The award includes full coverage of travel and accommodation to attend the ceremony in Abu Dhabi.

For students and young innovators seeking other funded programs in the Gulf, check latest scholarships in Saudi Arabia for all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

The Zayed Sustainability Prize is open to all nationalities. Eligibility varies by category:

• Health, Food, Energy, Water, Climate Action: Open to small and medium‑sized enterprises, non‑profit organizations, and non‑government organizations with proven sustainability solutions.

• Global High Schools: Open to high schools from around the world, with projects proposed and led by students.

Individuals (including students, researchers, and entrepreneurs) may also apply if they are part of a registered organization or school. There is no age limit.

How to Apply – Step by Step

Step 1: Visit the official Zayed Sustainability Prize website at zayedsustainabilityprize.com.

Step 2: Review the eligibility criteria and category guidelines for the 2027 cycle.

Step 3: Create an account on the official application portal.

Step 4: Complete the online application form, providing details about your project, its impact, and sustainability.

Step 5: Upload required documents (e.g., project description, financial information, supporting evidence).

Step 6: Submit your application before the deadline. There is no application fee.

Step 7: Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for additional verification.

For applicants seeking other financial aid options across the Middle East, explore financial aids for students in Middle East.

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: 15 June 2026

• Award Ceremony: January 2027 (Abu Dhabi, UAE)

Late applications are not accepted. Apply well before the deadline.

Why Participate in the Zayed Sustainability Prize?

• Fully funded prize – Winners receive substantial funding to scale their projects

• Global recognition – The award ceremony is attended by world leaders, dignitaries, and media

• Networking – Connect with sustainability experts, investors, and fellow innovators

• Proven impact – Previous winners have improved millions of lives across six continents

• Youth category – High school students can lead change and win $100,000 for their school

For a complete list of open scholarships and awards in the region, visit list of all open scholarships in Middle East.

Final Thoughts

The Zayed Sustainability Prize is a life‑changing opportunity for anyone working on innovative sustainability solutions. Whether you are a non‑profit, a startup, or a high school student, this prize can fund your vision and amplify your impact. Remember to apply only through the official website – avoid fraudulent third‑party links.

The deadline is 15 June 2026. Start your application today.

Apply Now for Zayed Sustainability Prize 2027