His Excellency Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gergawi, Minister of Cabinet Affairs and the Future, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees and Managing Director of Dubai Future Foundation, attended the FIRST Global Challenge 2019 in Dubai today. He witnessed the conclusion of an exhilarating competition that convened more than 1,500 students from 191 countries – up from the 161 countries represented at the event in Mexico City last year.

His Excellency noted that through the event, the UAE has consolidated its position as a global platform for knowledge sharing and international cooperation in shaping the future. He added that the tournament promotes the values of tolerance and peaceful coexistence that our country has held dear since its inception.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the FIRST Global Challenge 2019 in Dubai, His Excellency said: “The third edition of the Challenge succeeded in building the capacities of the future generation through bringing together more than 1,500 participants from 191 countries and inspiring them to embrace the concept of a global humanitarian partnership and shared responsibility for preserving our planet and protecting the environment.”

He added: “The visions, goals and aspirations of the young people from different countries of the world that have competed in leveraging robotics and artificial intelligence to find solutions to global challenges raises hope for a better future, led by young people that is determined to improve standards of living.”

The Minister of Cabinet Affairs and the Future pointed out that the UAE’s regional and global leadership in various future-focused fields, and its strategic location at the crossroads of East and West have contributed to the success of Dubai in hosting the largest FIRST Global Challenge to date. To compare, the inaugural edition of the competition in the USA in 2017 drew the participation of 157 countries.

His Excellency Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Gergawi commended all the participating teams for their admirable efforts, and wished them success in continuing to develop their skills and experience in the vital fields of robotics and artificial intelligence. He also extended his heartfelt congratulations to the winners of the global competition.

In closing, His Excellency noted that the wide international participation in the tournament reinforces the UAE’s influential role in the global endeavors to leverage technology to build a better future. He added that the UAE provides a competitive environment that stimulates creativity and innovation, and its quest to attract talent across diverse sectors has established the country as a global destination for bright minds with groundbreaking ideas.