The UAE's first Llama Design Drive Demo Day, hosted at the Dubai Future Foundation, showcased groundbreaking AI solutions developed by 30 innovators, including 22 startups and eight AI professionals.
The event marked the culmination of Meta’s AI accelerator program, in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation and powered by Startupbootcamp.
Over the course of a four-week program, 19 teams presented AI-driven prototypes aimed at solving real-world challenges for major UAE companies such as Emirates Airline, Chalhoub Group, Dubai Holding, and the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Using Meta’s open-source Llama 3.2 engine, participants focused on tackling seven key challenges, highlighting AI's transformative potential across industries.
Among the standout innovations, Indigo Hive introduced “MyTravelGuide,” a WhatsApp-based chatbot designed to assist travelers with disabilities and senior citizens. Icom Innovation unveiled “Ike,” an AI companion offering personalized support for accessible travel. Transcend Technologies showcased “Chalhoub Analytics,” which leverages Llama’s deep learning for luxury brand insights, while Fitch Technologies presented “FocastIQ,” a predictive tool for optimizing inventory management.
Additional projects included CarbonSifr’s multi-agent AI for GHG emissions tracking and Oryx’s “TransfeX,” a system to optimize public transportation routes. A startup also created an AI chatbot to simplify mobility data, supporting RTA’s decision-making processes.
Abdulaziz AlJaziri, Deputy CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, emphasized the event’s role in strengthening Dubai’s startup ecosystem and aligning with the city’s economic and social agendas. Meta’s Joulan Abdul Khalek hailed the program’s success, noting its ability to unite global and local talents to address complex industry needs with innovation.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
