The IRENA Youth Forum 2027 in UAE offers an exciting opportunity for young people from around the world to participate in global discussions about renewable energy and the future of sustainable energy systems. Organized by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), the forum brings together young leaders, innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs, and sustainability advocates.

The 2027 edition will focus on grid modernization, energy storage, and system flexibility under the theme, “Youth Energising the Future: Grids, Storage and Flexibility for Renewable Energy Systems.”

Up to 40 participants will receive fully funded participation, including travel, accommodation, and visa support. There is also no application or participation fee for selected fully funded participants.

The forum is open to young people of all nationalities aged 18 to 35. IELTS is not required. This makes the IRENA Youth Forum a valuable international opportunity for young professionals and students interested in renewable energy, sustainability, climate action, and innovation.

What Is the IRENA Youth Forum 2027?

The IRENA Youth Forum 2027 is the eighth edition of IRENA’s flagship platform for youth empowerment and intergenerational dialogue. It is designed to give young people a meaningful role in discussions surrounding the global energy transition.

The forum will explore how modern electricity grids, energy storage technologies, and flexible energy systems can support the expansion of renewable energy.

Participants will have opportunities to exchange ideas with international stakeholders and other young leaders. They can also build professional networks, improve their knowledge, and explore opportunities for collaboration.

The forum is more than a conference. It provides a platform for young people to contribute their perspectives to important conversations about the future of clean energy.

IRENA Youth Forum 2027 Benefits

The fully funded opportunity is particularly attractive for young applicants who may otherwise find international travel expensive.

Fully Funded Participation

Up to 40 participants will be selected for fully funded participation. The support covers:

• Travel
• Accommodation
• Visa support

This allows selected participants to attend the event in the UAE without bearing the main costs associated with international participation.

Additional applicants may also be invited to attend on a partially funded or self-funded basis.

No Application Fee

There is no application or participation fee for the opportunity. Applicants can submit their expression of interest without paying a scholarship or forum registration charge.

International Networking

Participants will meet young professionals and stakeholders working in renewable energy and related fields. This can create opportunities for knowledge exchange, partnerships, and future professional collaboration.

Learning and Capacity Building

The forum provides opportunities to learn about emerging developments in renewable energy systems. Participants can gain insights into grid modernization, energy storage, flexibility, and other issues shaping the energy transition.

IRENA Youth Forum 2027 Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility requirements are relatively straightforward. However, applicants should demonstrate genuine involvement or interest in renewable energy and sustainability.

To apply, candidates should meet the following criteria:

• Be 18 to 35 years old at the time of the forum.
• Be a citizen of any country.
• Be actively engaged in renewable energy, sustainability, innovation, or a related field.
• Be involved in projects, research, startups, advocacy, or other initiatives supporting the energy transition.
• Demonstrate an interest in the forum’s themes.
• Be willing to contribute to discussions and engage with other participants.

IELTS is not required for the application.

The selection process may also consider geographic and gender balance. Applicants should therefore clearly communicate their experience, achievements, interests, and potential contribution to the forum.

Where and When Will the IRENA Youth Forum Take Place?

The main IRENA Youth Forum 2027 activities are scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

The programme highlights the following activities:

• 6–7 January 2027: IRENA Youth Forum
• 8 January 2027: Closing session during the Seventeenth IRENA Assembly
• 9–13 January 2027: Youth-led activities during Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week

The events provide participants with opportunities to engage in discussions beyond the main forum and connect with broader sustainability initiatives.

IRENA Youth Forum 2027 Application Deadline

The application deadline is 30 September 2026 at midnight Abu Dhabi local time.

Applicants should submit their expression of interest before the deadline. Waiting until the final hours can increase the risk of technical problems or an incomplete submission.

The results are expected to be announced by 15 November 2026.

How to Apply for IRENA Youth Forum 2027

The application process is completed online through an expression of interest.

Step 1: Review the Eligibility Requirements

Confirm that you are between 18 and 35 years old and have an interest or active involvement in renewable energy, sustainability, innovation, or related areas.

Step 2: Prepare Your Information

Before starting the application, prepare information about your education, professional experience, projects, research, startup, advocacy work, or other relevant activities.

Step 3: Complete the Expression of Interest

Fill out the online expression of interest form carefully. Explain your experience and demonstrate why you would be a valuable participant.

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline

Submit your application before 30 September 2026, midnight Abu Dhabi local time.Applicants should also monitor their email after submission because successful candidates will receive further information regarding participation.

How to Make Your Application Stronger

Competition for fully funded international opportunities can be high. A strong application should therefore be specific and authentic.

Instead of simply stating that you are passionate about renewable energy, explain what you have actually done. Mention a project you contributed to, research you conducted, a community initiative you supported, or a sustainability problem you are working to solve.

You should also connect your experience to the forum theme. Explain why issues such as energy storage, grid modernization, or system flexibility matter to your community or country.

Most importantly, show what you can contribute to the conversation and what you hope to learn from other participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the IRENA Youth Forum 2027?

The forum is open to young people from all nationalities who will be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of the event and are actively engaged in renewable energy, sustainability, innovation, or related fields.

Is the IRENA Youth Forum fully funded?

Up to 40 participants will receive fully funded participation covering travel, accommodation, and visa support. Other participants may be invited on a partially funded or self-funded basis.

Is IELTS required?

No. IELTS is not required to apply for the IRENA Youth Forum.

What is the application deadline?

The expression of interest deadline is 30 September 2026 at midnight Abu Dhabi local time.

When will applicants receive the results?

Notification of results is expected by 15 November 2026.

Is there an application fee?

No. There is no application or participation fee for the fully funded opportunity.

Official Website       Apply Now

Follow our Social Media Platforms: WhatsApp Groups | Facebook Page