The UAE recently concluded the 2024–25 season of the International Robot Olympiad (IRO) at GEMS Cambridge High School in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant milestone in a prestigious global competition focused on artificial intelligence and robotics. The event gathered over 500 students aged 6 to 16 from more than 50 schools across all seven Emirates, supported by over 100 educators and coaches, along with more than 50 volunteers.

Under the theme “AI Guardians,” participating students demonstrated their creativity, collaboration, and technical skills by designing innovative AI-powered robots in three main categories: Wizards, Innovators, and Creators. The competition was organized by STEM Lab UAE in collaboration with the global EdTech leader Brainy n Bright and The Cambridge High School, Abu Dhabi, serving as a vital platform to inspire young learners and cultivate future innovation leaders.

Ms. Kuki Tyagi, Principal of GEMS Cambridge High School, Abu Dhabi, emphasized the unique nature of the competition, stating that it brought together young innovators from across the UAE to explore AI through robotics, highlighting their creativity, technical skills, and collaborative spirit. The winning teams from two major categories have qualified to represent the UAE at the IRO Global Finals, scheduled to take place in New Jersey, USA, in 2026.

Schools participating in the event showcased remarkable innovation and technical prowess, with standout teams including students from GEMS Modern Academy – Dubai, The Cambridge High School – Abu Dhabi, Deira Private School – Dubai, Al Salam Community School – Dubai, Delhi Private School – Dubai, and Sunrise English Private School – Abu Dhabi.

Dr. Aamir Rizwan, Chief Strategy Officer at Brainy n Bright, noted the power of collaboration by stating, “Big things happen when awesome people work together.” He expressed pride in leading the global EdTech transformation in alignment with the UAE’s vision and highlighted that hosting the IRO 2024–25 in the UAE reaffirms their commitment to shaping innovative, future-ready minds.

The event showcased the UAE’s leading role in integrating robotics, AI, and 3D design into mainstream education, fields that were traditionally limited to advanced technical sectors. Through initiatives like the IRO, the nation continues to nurture a generation of innovators ready to excel in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The event’s tagline, “Driven to Win Together!”, celebrated the collaborative efforts of students, educators, and partners, emphasizing the immense potential of technology-driven learning.