The UAE welcomed young scientific talents from around the world as Dubai hosted the 57th International Chemistry Olympiad (IChO 2025), marking the largest edition of the event since its inception in 1968.
With over 360 students representing more than 90 countries, the Olympiad, which began yesterday, will continue until July 14, featuring rigorous competitions alongside cultural programs and educational visits designed to foster global connections and showcase the UAE’s rich cultural and scientific heritage.
The UAE took over the hosting flag from Saudi Arabia, which organised the previous edition in 2024. At the end of this year’s Olympiad, the UAE will pass the baton to Uzbekistan for 2026, followed by Chinese Taipei in 2027.
A Celebration of Science and Youth
Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education, highlighted that hosting the Olympiad represents a significant milestone for the UAE, uniting brilliant minds driven by curiosity and a shared passion for understanding and changing the world.
“Chemistry is the science of change. It explains the reactions that shape everything around us, from the stars in the sky to the details of our daily lives,” Al Amiri said. She described chemistry as an invisible force enabling clean air, effective medicines, safe food, and modern technology.
She added that this year’s Olympiad has the highest number of participants in its history, reflecting global recognition of science as a tool to address humanity’s challenges.
“This competition is not just an academic test. It is a space to build friendships, broaden horizons, and celebrate scientific youth. We believe investing in people is the most valuable investment,” she affirmed.
Rigorous National Selection
According to the Ministry of Education, the UAE’s national team was selected after a meticulous process involving over 6,000 students from Grades 11 and 12 across the country. The final team consists of four outstanding students:
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Salama Ahmed Al Yamahi (Grade 11)
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Sheikha Mohammed Al Dhahnani (Grade 12)
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Amina Abdullah Yaid Al Shehhi (Grade 12)
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Maryam Eid Saif Al Abed (Grade 12)
The students expressed deep pride in representing their nation, describing their participation as one of the most important learning experiences of their lives. They emphasised that it is not just a scientific competition but a national responsibility to present an image worthy of the UAE’s name and educational standards.
They also credited the Ministry of Education for providing them with expert trainers, advanced scientific resources, and an environment that nurtured their excellence.
Chemistry’s Impact Beyond the Laboratory
Moza Saif Matar Al Shamsi, Secretary-General of the Arab Chemists Union and President of the Emirates Chemical Society, underscored chemistry’s pivotal role in everyday life, influencing everything from food and clothing to technology and artificial intelligence.
She expressed confidence in the UAE’s ability to cultivate future chemistry pioneers:
“A country that has reached space is certainly capable of producing world-class scientists and inventors in this vital field.”
An Inspiring Week Ahead
Dr. JL Kiaps, Chair of the IChO International Steering Committee, noted that participants will engage in challenging scientific tasks prepared by UAE University experts and global colleagues, designed to push their thinking and problem-solving abilities in innovative ways.
A Historic Moment for the UAE
For the Emirati team, this Olympiad holds even deeper significance as it takes place on home soil. The students said hosting the world’s brightest chemistry talents in their own country has doubled their sense of responsibility, motivating them to achieve outstanding results that reflect the UAE’s excellence in education and scientific advancement.
