UK-based innovation scale-up Wazoku has officially expanded its presence to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region by establishing operations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This strategic move underscores Wazoku’s commitment to driving innovation across the region through its AI-connected innovation ecosystem.
To meet local requirements and ensure data security, Wazoku has implemented a UAE-based server infrastructure. The company has also joined forces with FKRA, a leading UAE innovation consultancy, to provide on-the-ground expertise and adapt to the unique demands of the GCC market.
“The demand for open innovation across the GCC is accelerating as organizations seek global expertise to tackle pressing challenges,” said Schonning Eysturoy, Senior Director of Innovation Ecosystems at Wazoku. “Having solved over 2,500 challenges through open innovation, Wazoku is perfectly positioned to support this growing need. Our UAE-based infrastructure and partnership with FKRA demonstrate our commitment to serving the region effectively.” 
A Proven Track Record in GCC Innovation
Wazoku has already collaborated with major GCC organizations, including Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Neom, Saudi Water Authority, and Aramco. It has also played a key role in initiatives such as the Global Prize for Innovation in Desalination (GPID), the world’s largest competition dedicated to desalination excellence. This year’s GPID saw participation from 540 entrants—more than double the previous year—competing for a $10 million prize, with the winner to be announced in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on November 25, 2024.
In the UAE, Wazoku has recently added high-profile clients such as defense contractor EDGE Group and the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). Its expansion and partnerships will be formally unveiled at a special event in Abu Dhabi on November 19, 2024, co-hosted with TII. The event will highlight how crowdsourcing and innovation ecosystems can transform industries across the region.
A Comprehensive Innovation Ecosystem
Wazoku’s platform supports its “Total Innovation” approach, enabling organizations to crowdsource ideas, manage innovation processes, and develop start-up partnerships. By leveraging its network of 700,000 researchers, scientists, and experts, Wazoku helps clients uncover new solutions and opportunities. Its platform is already utilized by global enterprises such as Sanofi, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and various government bodies.
“The GCC’s focus on R&D is evident, with the UAE recently establishing a dedicated R&D council to foster innovation,” said Eysturoy. “Our presence in the UAE is a vital step in supporting the region’s ambitions. With our innovation management platform and global ecosystem, we’re well-equipped to help GCC organizations embrace large-scale innovation.”
A New Era of Innovation for the GCC
With this expansion, Wazoku reinforces its role as a global leader in innovation management, bringing AI-driven solutions and a collaborative ecosystem to the GCC. By addressing the unique challenges and opportunities in the region, Wazoku aims to empower organizations to innovate, scale, and transform industries in alignment with the UAE’s and the GCC’s ambitious visions for the future.
