To all the young changemakers seeking fully funded international youth forums, we have exciting news: one of the most anticipated youth forums is back with its 8th Edition – you heard it right! Applications are now open for the IRENA Youth Forum 2026, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi, UAE, from January 8 to 10, 2026. A flagship program of the Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) serves as a unique platform that gathers young leaders from all around the world to engage with the energy transition. The eighth edition of the Youth Forum revolves around an exciting theme of “Youth Innovation & Digital solutions: From Artificial Intelligence to Access in Renewable Energy,” which focuses on how people are leveraging Artificial Intelligence and business models to expand access to renewable energy.
The “IRENA Youth Forum” aims to gather young intellectuals, policymakers, and industry experts from all around the world to create solutions for inclusive energy transitions. This is a fully funded youth forum; all the expenses related to the forum will be covered by the host organization, such as Air tickets, meals, accommodation, and other perks and benefits. IRENA is inviting applications from young leaders between the ages of 16 & 35 years old, with an interest in renewable energy, innovation, sustainability, or related areas to apply. No application fee is required to apply for the IRENA Youth Forum; applicants interested in the forum need to submit their applications before September 30th, 2025. Read more details below
IRENA Youth Forum 2026 Overview
- Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
- Hosted by: IRENA
- Open for: All Nationals
- Coverage: Fully Funded
- Total Awards: 35
- Forum Dates: January 8-10, 2026
- Deadline: September 30th, 2025
Also, Check: KAUST AMS Visiting Program 2025 in Saudi Arabia
Benefits
The IRENA youth forum offers a wide range of benefits, such as:
- Participants will build long-term professional networks with peers and experts working in renewable energy
- Connect with young leaders, industry experts, and International organizations from all around the world
- Enhance your skills and knowledge by participating in anticipated workshops, panel discussions, and training sessions
- Gain hands-on experience in energy innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership
- Gain valuable insights into cutting-edge technologies
- Amplify your voice on an international stage
Coverage
The Irena youth forum offers generous support to the selected participants, which includes:
- Air Travel coverage
- Accommodation
- Meals for program duration
Eligiblity Criteria:
- The Youth Forum is open to all nationals
- Applicants aged 18-35 Years, regardless of any academic background or profession, are invited to submit their applications
- Applicants must demonstrate interest in renewable energy, innovation, sustainability, and related fields
- The forum is open for all nationals; however, it highly encourages applications from developing countries, least developed countries, and small island developing states.
- Good English communication skills are required as the forum will be conducted in English
- Applicants must have a valid passport
Also, Check:
Program Timeline
- Application Deadline: September 30th, 2025
- Selection Notification: November 15th, 2025
- January 8-9: Opening ceremony followed by interactive workshops
- January 10th: Closing Session
How to Apply?
Applicants who are interested in this fully funded Youth Forum in Abu Dhabi need to apply online by completing their expression of interest form available on the official platform mentioned below.
8TH IRENA YOUTH FORUM ONLINE APPLY
Apply before September 30th, 2025
