UAE Student Entrepreneurs Invited to Compete in Global Student Entrepreneur Awards 2026

Student founders across the UAE have until February 28, 2026, to apply for the 2026 Global Student Entrepreneur Awards, with the national competition set for March 28, 2026, and winners progressing to regional and global stages.

The Global Student Entrepreneur Awards (GSEA), a competition for university and college students who run a business while pursuing their studies, is now accepting applications for the 2026 UAE edition. 

The UAE application deadline is February 28, 2026, followed by the UAE competition on March 28, 2026. Regional quarter finals will take place in Saudi Arabia on May 7, 2026, with the Global Finals scheduled for July 2026. 

Applications can be submitted at www.gsea.org/apply by selecting Dubai, UAE. 

GSEA is open to undergraduate and graduate students aged 18 to 30 who are actively enrolled and own and operate a business that has been running for at least six months. Applicants must be owners, founders or controlling shareholders of their business. There are no participation costs, including travel to regional and global competitions.

Established in 1998 and run by Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO), the program operates in 39 countries and provides student founders with access to mentorship, global networks, and international exposure.

Participants receive guidance from experienced entrepreneurs, refine their pitching skills, and connect with a worldwide community of innovators. Finalists also compete for a share of a US$100,000 prize at the Global Finals while gaining international recognition. 

GSEA’s judging process evaluates both the entrepreneur and the business, with a primary focus on the individual. Judges assess tenacity, the ability to overcome challenges, and how effectively participants balance academic responsibilities with running a company. They also consider the entrepreneur’s motivation to create meaningful impact beyond financial gain.