Gargash Group has successfully concluded the two-day AI Hackathon UAE 2025, which took place at the Mercedes-Benz Brand Center in Dubai Design District. The event attracted over 100 talented developers, coders, and technology enthusiasts who were challenged to create smart, scalable solutions aimed at enhancing operational processes within the group. This initiative aligns with the UAE Vision for a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economy, serving as a platform to cultivate local talent and promote digital transformation across various industries.

A total of 88 teams, comprising 356 members, registered for the hackathon. From these, 28 finalist teams with 114 participants were selected to compete in the live competition. Among the notable participants were eight-time hackathon champions, AI researchers from leading global institutes, Emirati students, and early-stage tech founders.

During a demanding 24-hour sprint, the teams worked on addressing real-world operational challenges faced by Gargash Group, demonstrating exceptional creativity, technical skills, and teamwork. A distinguished panel of judges from various industries assessed the projects based on innovation, practicality, and potential impact.

The hackathon also included an AI-focused panel discussion featuring experts in the field, addressing the future of AI in business, responsible deployment, and how emerging technologies can tackle regional challenges.

The event concluded with the awarding of a cash prize of AED 30 000 to the winning team, whose solution was recognized for its innovative approach and immediate applicability to Gargash Group’s operations.

Shehab Gargash, Managing Director and Group CEO of Gargash Group, remarked that the UAE has long championed innovation as a catalyst for national progress. He expressed pride in contributing to this vision by nurturing the next generation of tech talent. He noted that the AI Hackathon UAE 2025 empowered creative minds and allowed the group to adopt transformative technologies to remain competitive in a digital world.

Walid Hizaoui, Group Chief Strategy Officer at Gargash Group, highlighted the importance of the event, stating that it marks a significant step in their ongoing transformation journey. He emphasized that the hackathon showcased brilliant local talent and produced practical solutions that will enhance operational excellence. Hizaoui reiterated the group’s commitment to investing in technologies and initiatives that align with the UAE’s vision for innovation-driven growth and global leadership.

Strategic partnerships played a crucial role in boosting the event’s impact. Gargash Group collaborated with leading tech enablers and innovation partners, including Adyen, Snowflake, Mesh, Transform UK, Villegas Recruitment Firm, Shorooq, and NextGenTechs.

Through initiatives like the AI Hackathon UAE 2025, Gargash Group continues to strengthen its dedication to digital innovation, operational excellence, and the growth of the UAE’s technology ecosystem.

Established in 1918, Gargash Group is one of the UAE’s leading business enterprises, encompassing a family of internationally renowned brands across four sectors: automotive, real estate, financial services, and Food & Beverage. The group is recognized for its global expertise and deep understanding of local markets, enabling it to provide integrated, innovative, and competitive services. It has introduced leading global automotive brands into the UAE, including Mercedes-Benz, Alfa Romeo, GAC MOTOR, SIXT Rent Car, SIXT Leasing, and SIXT Limousine. Since 1998, Gargash Group’s financial services arm, Daman Investments, has offered advisory, asset management, brokerage, and wealth management services in the UAE, alongside a real estate division that develops and manages high-quality properties across the country. The group also includes several prominent brands in the Food & Beverage industry.