The second edition of ForsaTEK, the Emirates Group’s annual innovation platform, was a resounding success, leaving hundreds of visitors inspired and amazed by the showcase of cutting-edge technology and futuristic ideas. The event, which brought together industry leaders, start-ups, and thought leaders, featured new partnerships, a robotics zone, and demos of innovative tech that captured the attention of all attendees.
The event was officially opened by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, along with His Excellency Dr Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, UAE’s Minister of Youth Affairs and the first Arab to perform a spacewalk. Dignitaries and senior Emirates Group executives were also present at the event, emphasizing the importance of innovation in shaping the future of the industry.
HH Sheikh Ahmed highlighted the transformative impact of technology and innovation on the industry and our daily lives, emphasizing the need for collaboration and partnership to bring revolutionary solutions to the table. The event featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and presentations by industry experts and thought leaders on topics ranging from corporate ventures to AI and robotics in aviation.
One of the highlights of ForsaTEK was the announcement of the Emirates Group’s partnership with Onyx by J.P. Morgan, the firm’s blockchain business unit, under the Group’s Blockchain Development Centre. This collaboration will focus on research, education, and implementation of blockchain technology tailored to the aviation industry, enhancing financial operations and customer experiences.
The event also featured demos by the Emirates Group’s partners, showcasing a diverse range of innovation and technology, including AI activations, drones, autonomous vehicles, and futuristic robotic skins. Start-ups from the Aviation X Lab and Intelak accelerator programmes also presented their ideas and tech solutions, aiming to revolutionize the aviation and travel industry.
ForsaTEK also aimed to inspire and educate youth, with university and secondary school students attending the event in large numbers. Prizes were awarded to students who addressed a challenge on how wearable technology can support baggage handlers at Dubai airport, encouraging innovation and creativity among the younger generation.
Overall, ForsaTEK lived up to its name, which means ‘your opportunities’ in Arabic, showcasing the endless possibilities of technology and innovation in shaping the future of the industry. With a focus on collaboration, partnership, and disruptive ideas, the event highlighted the importance of embracing change and pushing boundaries to create a better future for all.