Dubai has opened a new global competition for AI-agent innovation, with a prize pool exceeding AED2.5 million.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, announced the Create AI Agents Championship while Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum honoured winners of the third Create Apps Championship at Emirates Towers Boulevard.
The new championship replaces the app-focused format with one centred on autonomous AI-agent systems built for real user needs and market demand. It supports Dubai's push to accelerate the adoption of agentic AI and strengthen its position in the commercial use of the technology.
Led by the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, the Create Apps initiative has drawn 15,564 applications from 153 countries across three editions. It has produced 1,700 prototypes and supported the launch of more than 140 apps. The latest edition alone received 9,754 entries.
Entries are open worldwide to individuals, teams and existing businesses, with no minimum age. Fully commercialised solutions are not eligible. Participants will compete in four categories: Best Societal AI Agent, Best Personal AI Agent, Best Business AI Agent and Best Youth AI Agent, the last open to those under 21 at registration.
Each category winner receives AED550,000. One of them will also be named AI Agent of the Year and receive AED1 million.
Three introductory workshops will be held first, followed by the Digital Academy opening in November. Registration closes in December 2026, and participants must submit a prototype, pitch deck and demo video. Applications can be made at Dubaichamberdigital.com/en/create-ai-agents.
Among the Create Apps winners, POP by Kwelio took Longevity App of the Year and Dubai's App of the Year. Finalists and semi-finalists gain direct entry to Oraseya Capital's Launchpad, a six-month programme for early-stage startups.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
