HeroGo is the UAE’s first food - tech platform that rescues surplus groceries and pantry goods, delivering them to homes and businesses at reduced prices. By combating food waste and offering more affordable groceries, HeroGo supports a circular food economy and strengthens national food security. In 2024, they diverted over 410 tons of food from landfills, created 1 million meal equivalents, and reduced CO₂ emissions by over 1,000 tons. Their smart platform personalizes deliveries, learns household needs, and helps consumers shop more sustainably - saving money while saving the planet.
Thiqa’s 'Dirham Makes a Difference' initiative turns every teaching hour into a donation that funds education for students in need. Through their CSR fund, they support underprivileged children, single mothers, and teachers by allocating AED 1 from each class toward scholarships and training. Already, the initiative has sponsored 40 students, supported 50 mothers, and trained 5 teachers. By 2030, the goal is to support 1,000 students, empower 1,000 mothers, and deliver 100 development workshops - building an ecosystem of equitable, inclusive education for all.
This homegrown innovation uses AI - powered drones to restore mangrove forests across Abu Dhabi, planting over 9.5 million seeds to date. Built with modular, repairable tech from repurposed plastic waste, the drones reduce costs, improve planting success rates, and enable local ownership through a licensing model. The platform empowers communities with training, drone kits, and real - time data to expand restoration globally. With partners like ADNOC, ENGIE, and the Environment Agency–Abu Dhabi, the project is scaling impact, advancing biodiversity, and contributing to the UAE’s 2030 goal of 100 million mangroves.
This year, several projects spoke to us in a way we couldn’t ignore. For their unique perspective and innovative spirit, we are proud to present these special recognitions.
A UAE - born social enterprise empowering People of Determination through retail - based entrepreneurship. Participants learn to create and sell indoor plant arrangements, gaining skills for financial independence and workplace inclusion.
A global platform supporting female artists through a dedicated gallery in Dubai. The initiative fosters cultural equity by giving women visibility, economic opportunity, and a vibrant space to showcase talent.
A financial literacy movement promoting economic stability and sustainable growth. Wazen aims to educate 10 0,000 individuals on mindful consumption, saving, and investment practices for long - term resilience.
Launched by Ajman University, this mangrove planting project engages youth and underprivileged children in hands - on environmental restoration, climate awareness, and community-driven sustainability efforts.
