RoboCup Asia-Pacific 2025 to Debut in MENA at Abu Dhabi’s ADAW

Abu Dhabi is gearing up to welcome the world’s brightest robotics minds as Khalifa University of Science and Technology hosts RoboCup Asia-Pacific (RCAP) 2025 from November 10–15, 2025. For the first time in the Middle East and North Africa, the prestigious AI-driven robotics competition will take place at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, under the banner of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Autonomous Week (ADAW).

The event, backed by the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council (SASC) and held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, will transform the UAE’s capital into a global stage for cutting-edge robotics, sustainable innovation, and autonomous technologies.

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 A Week of Robotics Excellence

This milestone eighth edition of RCAP is expected to draw 1,900 participants from across the globe, bringing together young innovators, researchers, and industry leaders. Over six action-packed days, the competition will feature 34 contests across 8 leagues and 15 sub-leagues, spanning RoboCupSoccer, RoboCupRescue, RoboCup@Home, RoboCupIndustrial, and RoboCupJunior, alongside the RCAP Industry-Sponsored League, Demonstrations, and Special Challenges.

The contests will showcase next-generation robots tackling real-world challenges — from energy-efficient manufacturing to life-saving rescue operations — all under the unifying themes of Sustainability, Transforming Industries, Energy-Efficient Robotics, and AI-Driven Sustainable Models.

Spotlight on Sustainable Innovation

RCAP 2025 will push teams to design robots that minimise environmental impact. Competitors will be encouraged to use recyclable materials, create energy-efficient designs, and leverage AI to optimise resources, underlining the event’s commitment to sustainability as a key driver of technological progress.

A Landmark Week for Autonomous Te  chnologies

As part of ADAW’s high-profile line-up, the week will kick off with the Abu Dhabi Autonomous Summit on November 10, setting the stage for global discussions on policy and innovation. Other highlights include DRIFTx from November 10–12, showcasing advancements in urban mobility, and the adrenaline-charged Abu Dhabi Autonomous Racing League (A2RL) on November 15, promising an exciting close to the week.

By bringing together policymakers, innovators, and investors, ADAW aims to position Abu Dhabi as a leading hub for safe, sustainable, and forward-thinking autonomous systems.