With nearly 700 applicants vying for just 30 spots, the Global Shapers Abu Dhabi Hub has become surprisingly competitive for a volunteer-based initiative. For high-achievers like Sarah AlKaabi, who balances roles in government and academia, the lack of a salary is irrelevant. Instead, these candidates view the opportunity as a vital investment in their personal and professional growth. They are drawn to the program’s unique ability to transcend traditional institutional silos, offering them a chance to collaborate with diverse, impact-driven individuals who are actively shaping the city’s future.

The motivation behind this surge in interest is a shared desire to bridge the gap between high-level policy and real-world results. Whether it is Eissa Al Awadhi’s push to empower young creatives or Aysha Alzaabi’s focus on community-led problem-solving, applicants are eager to turn abstract ideas into tangible projects. By joining the World Economic Forum’s Global Shapers network, these young leaders hope to gain fresh perspectives, cross-sector mentorship, and the platform necessary to drive meaningful, measurable change across the UAE.