IRENA Youth Forum 2026: Youth Innovation & Digital Solutions - UAE
- Omran Aburayya
- Sep 16
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 17
If you are a youth leader or innovator passionate about renewable energy and digital transformation, the IRENA Youth Forum 2026 is an important opportunity. The forum, taking place on 8-12 January 2026 in Abu Dhabi, UAE, at the margins of the 16th IRENA Assembly, focuses on “Youth Innovation and Digital Solutions: From AI to Access in Renewable Energy”. Here’s everything you need to know to apply successfully.
🌐 Forum Summary
Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Organizer: International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)
Dates: 8-12 January 2026 (Forum events) / 10-12 January for the IRENA Assembly sessions.
Theme: Youth Innovation & Digital Solutions: From AI to Access in Renewable Energy
📆 Key Deadlines & Applicant Notifications
Expression of Interest (EOI) Deadline: 30 September 2025
Notification of Application Status: By 15 November 2025
✅ Who Can Apply
Age range: Applicants must be aged 18-35 years by the time the Forum takes place.
Passion & commitment: Those with strong motivation and demonstrated work or interest in renewable energy, sustainability, digital innovation, or just energy transition are preferred.
Global representation: Applications from all over the world are welcomed; selections aim for gender balance and geographical diversity.
Language: The Forum will be conducted in English. Responses to the application (EOI) must be in English.
Passport requirement: Applicants need a valid passport for the duration of the Forum.
🧭 What the Forum Includes
Workshops & interactive sessions on AI, digitalization, access to renewable energy, and business model innovation.
High-level opening & closing sessions aligned with decision-makers during the IRENA Assembly.
Youth-led spaces such as booths or lounges to showcase youth projects, innovations, and networking.
Outcome Statement that the participants co-draft and which influences broader discussions during the Assembly.
✍🏻 Application Procedure
Prepare your expression of interest: Collect details about your experience, motivation, current project or involvement, all written in English.
Fill the online form: Complete the EOI form before the deadline (30 September 2025).
Avoid last-minute submission: To avoid technical issues, complete and submit well in advance.
Ensure eligibility: Check age, passport, language, and experience criteria before applying.
🎁 Benefits of Participation
Engage directly with global leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders in renewable energy.
Network with peers, innovators, and potential partners from around the world.
Contribute to policy discussions via the Forum’s Outcome Statement.
Access to broader IRENA youth-initiatives (e.g. NewGen Renewable Energy Accelerator, Energy Transition Education Network) and other opportunities.
