CIBSE MENA Student Design Competition 2026

Integrated Lifestyle Communities – Engineering Net Zero Districts by 2050

The CIBSE MENA Student Design Competition 2026 is officially open, inviting students from across the region to develop innovative engineering solutions that will help shape the sustainable communities of tomorrow.

This year's theme, "Integrated Lifestyle Communities – Engineering Net Zero Districts by 2050," challenges participants to design future-ready districts that combine engineering excellence with environmental responsibility, resilience, and occupant wellbeing.

The competition was officially launched on 20 May 2026 through an online event led by Syed Atam Hayat, Education Liaison Lead, CIBSE UAE, providing participants with an overview of the competition, submission requirements, and expert guidance on developing successful entries.

Competition Theme

Participants are encouraged to develop integrated district-scale solutions incorporating:

District energy systems
Smart infrastructure integration
Low-carbon mobility
Water efficiency and circular resource strategies
Climate resilience
Health and wellbeing-centred design

Who Can Participate?

The competition is open to students studying:

Engineering
Architecture
Building Sciences
Sustainability
Urban Planning

Key Dates

Competition Launch: 20 May 2026
Submission Deadline: 1 September 2026

Why Participate?

The CIBSE MENA Student Design Competition offers an opportunity to:

Demonstrate innovative engineering and sustainable design skills
Address real-world challenges in district-scale developments
Gain recognition from leading industry professionals
Showcase your work to the CIBSE MENA community

Prizes

🏆 First Prize: AED 7,500

🥈 Second Prize: AED 5,000

🥉 Third Prize: AED 2,000

In addition, all participants will receive a Certificate of Participation.

We encourage all eligible students to participate and help engineer the net zero communities of the future.

CIBSE MENA Student Design Competition