Startups from the American University in Dubai’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center have achieved great success in the world of small businesses.

Two student founders, Fatma and Amna Al Hashimi, won second place and received a sum of 25,500 dirhams from Mohammed bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF) for their startup “HEY VALET,” during the Dubai Future Foundation’s competition. A total of 21 startups from six universities participated and three projects received cash prizes in the competition. "HEY VALET" is a mobile application currently available on the Apple Store that facilitates the easy parking of cars, whether at a hospital, hotel, or shopping center.

Recently, the Dubai Police also honored Sharifa Aleisa, and Vivek Ganesh, Founders of Rescue Innovation and Super Module – two AEIC Startups for their innovative ideas. Sharifa’s startup helps rescue people from drowning using a specially designed life jacket with a tracking device that aids rescue teams and parents in locating the person. Super Module’s startup is based on Blockchain technology and NFT’s.

Dr. Sunita Kshatriya, Director of the Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, explained that any student, from within or outside of AUD, can join the Entrepreneurship Center and present an idea to receive support at various stages of development, leading to obtaining funding and trade license.

Fatma and Amna Al Hashimi and Dr. Sunita Kshatriya with Dr. David Schmidt and Dr. Sabrina Joseph showcasing their MBRIF award.

Sharifa Al-Issa explains her innovation idea at the Dubai Police Headquarters in the presence of Dr. Hassan. Zeineddine, Chair of Decision Sciences and Director of CEPPS at AUD.