Expo City Dubai recently hosted the region’s first femtech hackathon. This event gathered developers, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, and students with the goal of creating technology-based solutions for women’s health. The hackathon focused on various topics, including fertility, reproductive care, mental health, and menopause, challenging participants to explore how technology can enhance support for women throughout different life stages.

From more than 100 initial proposals, 40 students aged 16 to 18 from 23 schools across the UAE were chosen to participate in the intense 48-hour event. The hackathon concluded with MenoCare claiming first place for their innovative biosensor patch that tracks estrogen levels in sweat, alongside an app designed to assist women in managing menopause. Second place was awarded to Bump2Baby, which developed a wearable artificial intelligence (AI)-powered band aimed at monitoring fetal health in underserved regions. Clove, an AI skincare assistant customized for hormonal changes, took third place, while a project named Smart Compact Mirror for Women’s Safety received an honorable mention and will continue to develop through a three-month incubation program with PeriCare.

The femtech hackathon took place in the Women’s Pavilion at Expo City Dubai, in partnership with the Dubai-based femtech startup PeriCare and the scientific advisory firm NextGen of Immunology Consultancy. The event aimed to place young women in the forefront of innovation within the healthcare and wellbeing sectors. Participants received guidance from industry experts and feedback from a judging panel as they crafted practical solutions that fused medical knowledge with cultural sensitivity. Maha Gorton, Head of Women’s Pavilion at Expo City Dubai, remarked that the hackathon showcased the impressive potential of young talent when provided with appropriate mentorship and opportunities.

Perihan Abouzeid, founder of PeriCare, emphasized that the femtech hackathon arose from the belief that discussions about the future of women’s health need to happen now. She noted that Gen Z represents the bold, purpose-driven leaders ready to lead this conversation. The organizers of the event are looking to extend the initiative with more hackathons and ongoing programs to foster a regional femtech ecosystem. These efforts align with Expo City Dubai’s broader goals of inclusivity and innovation, as well as the mission of the Women’s Pavilion to elevate women’s voices across various sectors.