Applications for the Zayed Sustainability Prize 2026 are now open. This awards ceremony will take place in Abu Dhabi, where winners will be invited to attend in January 2026. The Abu Dhabi government will cover flights, accommodation, and local transportation for the finalists. Furthermore, winners will receive monetary awards. The aim of this program is to acknowledge and celebrate leaders for their innovative and impactful contributions to a sustainable future across various sectors, including health, food, energy, water, climate action, and global high schools. There is no fee to apply, and everyone, regardless of nationality, is eligible to participate. More information regarding the program’s requirements, award details, and application process is provided below.

Details About Zayed Sustainability Prize 2026

• Host Country: UAE
• Location: Abu Dhabi
• Organized by: Zayed Sustainability Prize, UAE
• Award Dates: January 2026
• Benefits: Fully Funded
• Deadline: 23rd June 2025

Financial Benefits

The Program Covers:

• Airfare Tickets
• Acommodation
• Ground Transport
• No Application Fees

Program Categories

• Health: Improving Healthcare Access
• Food: Combatting Food Insecurity
• Energy: Powering Communities
• Water: Supply of Safe Drinking Water
• Climate Action: Advancing Climate Migration and Adaption
• Global High Schools: Inspiring Youth Leadership

Prize Value

• Health: US $1,000,000
• Food: US $1,000,000
• Energy: US $1,000,000
• Water: US $1,000,000
• Climate Action: US $1,000,000
• Global High Schools: US $900,000, with up to US $150,000 awarded to one school from each of the six global regions.

Eligible Regions

Candidates from the following regions can apply:

• The Americas
• Sub-Saharan Africa
• Middle East & North Africa
• Europe & Central Asia
• South Asia
• East Asia & Pacific

General Eligibility Criteria for All Categories

• Innovation (40%):
  
  • Solution must be novel or significantly improve existing solutions.
  • Demonstrate a unique value proposition.
  • Exhibit technical and commercial viability.
  • Show evidence of potential or actual market adoption.
• Impact (30%):
  
  • Demonstrate a clear positive impact on quality of life.
  • Address significant social, economic, technological, or environmental challenges.
  • Exhibit organizational resilience to potential challenges.
  • Demonstrate good governance and skilled personnel.
  • Implement fair policies.
  • Provide a detailed plan for effective use of prize funds.
• Inspiration (30%):
  
  • Embody core values of sustainability and human development.
  • Reflect the legacy of Sheikh Zayed.
  • Inspire further sustainable and human development actions.
  • Influence community adoption of sustainable behaviors.

How to Apply for the Zayed Sustainability Prize 2026?

Applications must be submitted through the online submission portal on the Zayed Sustainability Prize website. Each applicant can only enter one category. The Link to the official website is below. Read ZSP FAQs.