22 Nations Compete in Robotics Asia-Pacific Championship: 168 Teams Vying for Title

The UAE is hosting its first major international robotics championship as Khalifa University brings the 8th Asia-Pacific Robot Contest to Abu Dhabi from November 10-15. The event draws over 700 competitors from 22 countries, marking the first time this prestigious competition has been held in the Middle East and North Africa region.

The championship features eight main competitions across 15 categories, with 168 teams competing under the theme "AI and Robotics for a Sustainable Future." Participants will tackle AI-powered robotics challenges spanning five key areas: robotic soccer, rescue robots, home assistance robots, industrial robotics, and an emerging category specifically designed for students and young innovators.

This event fits into the UAE's broader push to become a global hub for advanced technology. The country has been investing heavily in AI and robotics research through institutions like Khalifa University, which operates the Autonomous Robotics Systems Center with over 50 academic and administrative staff members working on diverse projects.

The timing aligns with several UAE national initiatives. The competition supports the country's "Year of Community" by bringing together students, teachers, and innovators from around the world. It also connects to the UAE's Climate Neutrality 2050 strategy by highlighting energy-efficient robotic solutions and sustainable technologies for future cities.

For the robotics industry, events like this serve as testing grounds for new technologies and talent development. The competition categories reflect real-world applications where robotics is making practical advances - from industrial automation to disaster response and home assistance systems.

Khalifa University has been building its reputation in this space. Last year, it hosted the 36th International Conference on Robotics and Intelligent Systems, one of the field's most important academic gatherings. The university's robotics center focuses on developing systems that can operate in harsh environments, industrial applications, and infrastructure monitoring - areas particularly relevant to the Gulf region's climate and industrial needs.

The championship is part of Abu Dhabi's first "Autonomous Systems Week 2025," supported by the Autonomous Intelligent Systems Council. This broader framework suggests the UAE is positioning itself as a regional center for robotics research and development, potentially attracting international companies and researchers to establish operations there.