As the UAE accelerates its pivot from a resource-driven economy to a knowledge-based one, a quiet revolution is taking place in its classrooms. The country’s long-term ambitions, from artificial intelligence to clean energy, space exploration to smart cities, depend not on oil, but on minds. Bright, agile, and future-ready minds. Recognizing this, the UAE has placed exceptional focus on finding and nurturing its most gifted youth, early, accurately, and inclusively. At the center of this national strategy is the Hamdan Talent Scale: a groundbreaking scientific tool that’s reshaping how the country identifies and develops its next generation of innovators, scientists, and leaders.
Uncovering Gifted Minds: Results That Speak for Themselves
Since early 2025, nearly 9,000 students have undergone evaluations through the national Talent Identification Program. The result: over 400 gifted students have been identified in just a few months. Dr. Mariam Al Ghawi, Director of the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Giftedness and Innovation, said:“Since the beginning of 2025, nearly 9,000 students have been evaluated through the national Talent Identification Program, resulting in the discovery of more than 400 gifted students. This outcome underscores the accuracy and efficiency of the scale. It reinforces the development of tailored programs to support this exceptional group of learners.” To date, more than 2,000 gifted students have already been identified through the program. Many of them are currently enrolled in specialized academic tracks that emphasize STEM education, innovation labs, and expert mentorship, a system closely aligned with the UAE’s long-term vision for national innovation and human capital development. Dr. Al Ghawi emphasized:“It is considered one of the most advanced systems for identifying gifted and talented individuals in the Arab world.”
What Is the Hamdan Talent Scale?
Designed for students in Grades 4 through 12, the Hamdan Talent Scale is part of a national effort to identify and support gifted learners using a culturally relevant, research-based approach. Dr. Mariam Al Ghawi explained how the tool works and why it stands out:“The test is a scientifically developed tool designed to identify gifted students in grades 4 through 12. Initiated by the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation, this test combines international research with local cultural and educational values, offering a comprehensive assessment of students’ intellectual, academic, and creative abilities.”
How Gifted Students Are Selected
The program uses a three-stage process to ensure accurate and fair identification of talent:
- Nomination: Students may be nominated by their schools or apply directly via the Foundation’s official website.
- Screening: Participants undergo assessments that evaluate cognitive skills, creativity, and academic performance.
- Selection: Those who meet the defined talent criteria are enrolled into long-term development programs.
“This process ensures fairness and accessibility, covering public and private schools across the seven emirates,” Dr. Al Ghawi added.
Opportunities That Follow: A Path to Growth
Students selected through the Hamdan Talent Scale gain access to a world of opportunity. The program is built around STEM and arts enrichment, including:
- Advanced academic tracks
- Innovation labs
- National and international competitions
- Expert mentorship programs
- Global exposure and collaboration
These experiences are designed to cultivate critical thinking, leadership, and creativity, key attributes for the UAE’s future innovators and leaders. Notably, participation is entirely free of charge. Activities are conducted on weekends, school holidays, or through school visits. Development programs are structured to evolve gradually over eight years, ensuring long-term impact and sustainability.
Open to All: A National Movement for Talent
One of the hallmark features of the initiative is its inclusivity. Open to students of all nationalities, the program reflects the UAE’s broader vision for a future-ready education system. Since launch, more than 2,200 talented students have been identified, with a target of 5,000 students by 2030. Beyond student support, the program also invests in:
- Specialized training for teachers
- Awareness campaigns for families
- Strategic partnerships with schools
These initiatives aim to create a national culture that celebrates and nurtures talent, aligning with the goals of the UAE Centennial Vision 2071.
