iOS Design Challenge

Description

This initiative is organized in collaboration with Apple Professional Learning Specialists, and is a national initiative for Emirati students aged 13-18, aimed at cultivating the next generation of app developers in the UAE. Through this program, students engage in critical thinking and problem solving by applying design thinking principles to conceptualize and develop app ideas that address real-world problems.

Participants receive skills training focused on User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX) design, as well as coding basics. Using iOS prototype design and unique Apple technologies, students get hands-on experience in coding and design.

The initiative includes awards and recognition, where submissions are evaluated, and the most promising students win spots in the more advanced level Swift Accelerator program. Winners receive a MacBook and 180 hours of coding training to bring their app ideas to life.

Eligibility Criteria

You have an interest in developing your STEAM skills and knowledge

Participants in this initiative should have an interest in developing their STEAM skills and abilities. 

You are between the ages of 13-18

Participants must be between the ages of 13-18.

You are bright and competitive

Participants should be bright, innovative and driven by competition. 

Applications Open

October 2024

Applications Close

February 2025

Submission Deadline

April 2025
October 2024

Start of Training

December 2024

End of Training

March 2025

Awarding the Winners

  • 00Days
  • 00Hours

Our Impact

Our Ambitions

2022

Participants
1000

2023

Participants
2000

2024

Participants
3000

2025

Participants
4000

2026

Participants
5000

2027

Participants
6000
Relationship with National Identity
The iOS Design Challenge embodies the key Emirati economic characteristics of economic resilience, enterprising spirit, and openness, aligning creativity and innovation with the with the UAE's vision for a knowledge-based economy and future leadership in technology.
Its Impact
Greater numbers of young Emiratis able to create and develop their own app ideas thereby nurturing future Emirati entrepreneurs in the tech industry. Cultivation of a new generation of app developers in the UAE, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills while igniting a passion for innovation and entrepreneurship among young participants.
Its Uniqueness
Embraces a comprehensive approach to app development, which includes design thinking exercises, UI/UX design training, and the opportunity for participants to bring their app ideas to fruition through the Swift Accelerator program.

Get ready to dive into an exciting challenge!

Unleash your creativity, explore new design concepts, and learn app development—all while celebrating the UAE’s rich culture and values!

Closed Applications

Benefits for joining

Encourages pursuit of STEAM fields in higher education and career paths.

Develops highly sought after UX / UI app prototyping skills

Gain skills in critical thinking, digital fluency, creativity, computational thinking and project management through social impact.

Directs students’ time and competitiveness into productive and useful activities.

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