Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The UAE's leading academic institutions are taking part in the Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) 2026, showcasing talent development and innovation that meet industry needs and engaging students in real life scenarios.
Prof. Yahya Zweiri, Senior Director of the Research & Innovation Center for Graphene and 2D Materials RIC2D and Director of the Advanced Research and Innovation Center at Khalifa University, said the university is demonstrating how research is being translated into real-world applications at the event.
He highlighted the role of the university's research centers and the commercialisation arm Khalifa University Enterprises Company in this regard.
According to Prof. Zweiri most of the showcased products come from Khalifa University of Science and Technology's Research and Innovation Center for Graphene and 2D Materials (RIC2D), and Intratomics, the commercialisation arm producing 2D materials.
2D materials are single-atom-thick layers that are key to developing next-generation semiconductors, memory devices, quantum technologies, flexible electronics and advanced energy systems.
Naama Al Hemeiri, a PhD student at Khalifa University, presented a sustainability-focused invention which recycles CO2 emissions into higher value chemicals such as methane.
She noted that it uses a graphene-based catalyst at a lower cost, as "it does not use expensive rare earth elements."
Maleka Bin Tarsh, Programme Senior Specialist at Khalifa University, introduced a practical solution addressing environmental and logistical challenges.
"We have developed a hydration bag that turns seawater into drinkable water using date syrup and membranes that filter salt out of the bag.
She added that the innovation is designed for real-life use, emphasising its sustainability and local production, as it is "locally made here in the UAE and we are planning to scale this for industry."
Dr Alaa Zetawi, Senior researcher – Sensor Integration at the Higher Colleges of Technology, underlined the importance of linking academic projects with industry needs.
He explained that their participation aims to connect students' projects with real-life applications.
He also highlighted several student-led innovations, including a fibre-controlled car, a multifunctional robot, and a static mixer, demonstrating how applied engineering contributes directly to industry and safety.
Prof. Montasir Qasymeh, Associate Provost for Research, Innovation, and Academic Development at Abu Dhabi University, emphasised the growing role of universities in bridging education and industry.
He described the event as "a fantastic opportunity to involve students in real life scenarios; we are now presenting products, not just research."
"We want students who are ready to take their ideas to the market. We will support the commercialisation of their projects for the good of the community."
