UAE Central Bank hackathon targets money challenges: Who can apply and key dates

The Central Bank of the UAE has initiated a Financial Health Innovation Hackathon, partnering with the Alliance for Innovative Regulation, the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth, and the Emirates Institute of Finance. The aim is to develop practical solutions that improve individuals' and businesses' financial management. The application window closes on November 30, 2026.

Four key areas will be focused on: managing day-to-day finances, coping with financial shocks, achieving long-term goals, and making confident financial decisions. Solutions will be prioritized if they address the financial needs of various UAE groups, such as low-income earners, Emirati families, young people, people of determination, women, micro, small and medium-sized businesses, older people, and pensioners.

Eligible applicants must be based in the UAE or abroad and have solutions that are more than just ideas or prototypes. Successful submissions will receive support, including readiness clinics, guidance from experts, facilitated engagement with financial institutions, pilot project design assistance, and grants for eligible applicants. However, selection does not guarantee pilot implementation.