AI, poetry and sign language apps win Abu Dhabi youth innovation awards
An AI platform that lets users speak with virtual Arab writers and thinkers, an audio tool for Arabic poetry and an app translating UAE Sign Language into speech are among the projects recognised at the 2026 Youth Innovation Award in Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, announced the winners during the fifth Congress of…
The 2026 Youth Innovation Award in Abu Dhabi celebrated groundbreaking projects blending Arabic language, technology, and cultural identity. The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), a division of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, announced the winners during the fifth Congress of Arabic & Creative Industries at Manarat Al Saadiyat.
In the University Students Category, a team of students emerged victorious for their interactive game, "Guardian of the Poem." This innovative platform immerses players in the world of pre-Islamic literature, guiding them on a quest to gather fragments of a lost poem. Second place went to "Wasl," an AI-driven platform that connects users with Arabic literature and knowledge through voice conversations with virtual characters embodying writers, scholars, and thinkers.
Third place was awarded to "Faseeh," an Arabic-learning app that employs real-life tasks and everyday situations to enhance language skills.
The Emerging Entrepreneurs Category showcased promising ventures. "Okaz," a smart glove designed for the visually impaired, earned first place. The glove translates Arabic poetry verses and their authors, enabling users to engage in poetry exchanges and is accessible to those with visual impairments. Second place was claimed by "Ramsa," an app that offers real-time translation between UAE Sign Language and speech, bridging the communication gap between Deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals and the hearing community.
Finally, third place went to "Future that Carry our Arabic Identity," a film envisioning a future where Arabic language and culture remain integral to society.
Dr Ali Bin Tamim, Chairman of ALC, emphasized that the award provides young innovators with a platform to test ideas and develop novel methods to bolster Arabic language and culture through technology, storytelling, and design. As part of Congress X Youth, the award offers university students and young professionals workshops, training, and networking opportunities within the creative industries.
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