Second Edition of ForsaTEK Inspires Hundreds with Innovation in Action

Thursday, June 6, 2024

Bigger and better, the second edition of ForsaTEK left hundreds of visitors inspired as they witnessed innovation in action.

ForsaTEK, the Emirates Group’s annual innovation platform, unites the organization’s powerful technology and industry partnerships, vibrant start-up ecosystem, esteemed thought leaders and speakers, youth, along with cutting-edge concepts and ideas. This year, new partnerships, a dedicated robotics zone, and demonstrations of futuristic technology took center stage.

The event was officially inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, alongside His Excellency Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi, UAE’s Minister of State for Youth and the first Arab to perform a spacewalk. The event also welcomed dignitaries and senior Emirates Group executives.

HH Sheikh Ahmed said: “With technology and innovation having such a transformative impact on our industry and lives every day, launching ForsaTEK was absolutely the right thing to do. It aligns with our vision and our role, both in the industry and globally. Last year’s event proved to be a powerful learning and networking opportunity for our stakeholders and our employees.

“On a much larger scale this year, a key focus for ForsaTEK is displaying innovation in action. More than ever, our industry needs to collaborate and partner with key stakeholders – from government entities and tech partners to start-ups and industry titans from different fields. ForsaTEK weaves together different strands, technology, ideas, concepts, commitment and intent to bring brave and revolutionary new solutions to the table.”

Keynotes and Panels

HE Dr. Sultan Al Neyadi opened with a keynote speech emphasizing the significance of youth in driving innovation. This was followed by engaging panel discussions covering topics such as the corporate venture world, the integration of humanoid robots in aviation, the convergence of AI with other technologies, Dubai’s pivotal role in future-shaping, innovation proximity, and the unstoppable advancement of robotics.

Senior executives and thought leaders from Dubai Future Foundation, Meta, Microsoft, Block Gemini, Boardwalk Robotics, and prestigious universities shared their visions, insights, and challenges. Additionally, the Emirates Group’s senior leadership discussed how innovation is set to transform the travel industry.

Partners and Partnerships

At ForsaTEK, the Emirates Group announced its agreement with Onyx by J.P. Morgan, the firm’s blockchain business unit and the first organization to join the Group’s newly launched Blockchain Development Centre. This collaboration will focus on research and development, education, and the implementation of blockchain technology. It aims to provide the Group with cutting-edge financial blockchain solutions tailored to the aviation industry, enhancing its financial operations and customer experiences.

The Group’s Blockchain Development Centre is built on four pillars: collaboration and advocacy, R&D, education and coaching, and innovation.

This year, the Emirates Group’s partners captivated visitors with a diverse and engaging array of innovation and technology. Demonstrations included AI-centered activations by AWS, a caged drone by e&, a Gen AI Avatar by Microsoft, and a Smart Trolley by Airbus. EasyMile showcased its drones and autonomous vehicles, HiveRobotics displayed its cleaning bot for aircraft seats, Holoplot presented its innovative audio technology, SITA introduced its Flexbox, and the Technical University of Munich featured its futuristic robotic skins. Web3 demos included spatial computing, blockchain, and biometric payments.

Start-Up Souk

Start-ups from the Aviation X Lab and Intelak accelerator programs made a strong presence in a souk-style space, showcasing their ideas and innovative technologies. They pitched their proofs of concept (POCs) and their vision to revolutionize aviation and travel to a large audience of VIPs, investors, and the broader tech industry.

Youth Engagement

ForsaTEK also aims to inspire and educate youth, with university and secondary school students attending the event in large numbers. Prizes were awarded to students who best addressed a challenge launched in April on how wearable technology can be used to support baggage handlers at Dubai airport.

ForsaTEK is derived from ‘Forsa,’ meaning ‘your opportunities’ in Arabic, and is also a play on ‘technology’ and Emirates (code ‘EK’).

• Horizon: Sri Lanka— dnata Travel Group New Venture to Boost Island Tourism

• Minor Hotels and dnata Travel Group announce strategic partnership to enhance global travel experiences

• Emirates Group Sets New Benchmarks with AED 18.7 Billion Profit in 2023-24

• Dnata Clinches Major Catering Deal with Etihad Airways for U.S. Flights

• Emirates Group offers local and international air conveyance