#Abu Dhabi #UAE #Hackathon #MBZUAI #K2 Think

MBZUAI Launches K2 Think Hackathon

Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI) has officially launched the K2 Think Hackathon, an exciting international challenge set to transform visionary ideas into impactful solutions. This initiative encourages innovators, developers, researchers, founders, and students from both secondary and high schools to create groundbreaking applications fueled by the advanced capabilities of K2 Think, a leading open-source system designed for complex reasoning tasks. The winning concept will find its way into the K2 Think app, ultimately reaching a global audience.

The hackathon unfolds in two distinct stages: the first stage is an open global call for ideas, while the second stage consists of an engaging in-person build challenge held in Abu Dhabi.

Stage 1: Global Idea Call

• - Duration: October 14 to 26, 2025

Participants from all over the world are invited to submit concise one-page proposals detailing how K2 Think can address real-world problems or enhance user experiences. This stage aims to gather some of the most innovative ideas from a diverse range of thinkers.

Stage 2: 48-Hour Build Challenge

• - Duration: November 7 to 9, 2025

The top ten proposals, selected by a panel of industry experts, will receive travel grants that cover expenses to participate in a hands-on development phase at MBZUAI. This face-to-face challenge will allow finalists to refine their ideas and present their solutions to a jury.

Richard Morton, Acting Executive Director of the Institute of Foundation Models at MBZUAI, expressed enthusiasm about the hackathon's potential impact: "The K2 Think Hackathon will bring together some of the world's most creative and talented developers to shape the future of AI reasoning by demonstrating real-world impacts. K2 Think is crafted for sophisticated mathematical reasoning, fostering transformative solutions in various fields, including science, education, finance, and logistics. This hackathon stands as a remarkable opportunity for innovators globally to highlight the best applications of K2 Think in both imaginative and practical ways. We invite the world to challenge the boundaries of possibility and convert ideas into tangible impacts."

How to Apply

Interested teams can now submit applications through the official hackathon website. Each team, consisting of up to four members, is required to provide a detailed proposal that includes:

• - A concise problem statement along with its intended users
• - Description of how K2 Think will be integrated within the solution
• - Proposed demo or user experience
• - Anticipated global impact of the application

The deadline for submissions is set for October 26, 2025, offering ample time for teams to craft their proposals and showcase their understanding of K2 Think's capabilities.

About MBZUAI

Situated in Abu Dhabi, MBZUAI is a prominent research-focused institution dedicated solely to the advancement of artificial intelligence. The university aims to nurture the next generation of AI leaders and bolster innovation through exceptional interdisciplinary research and education. In 2025, MBZUAI launched its inaugural Bachelor of Science in AI, introducing two specialized streams: Business and Engineering. For further details, visit mbzuai.ac.ae.

The K2 Think Hackathon represents an incredible opportunity for individuals eager to make a mark in the AI landscape, inviting all science and tech enthusiasts to take part in shaping the future of technology.