UNDP and Al Ghurair open UAE gaming bootcamp applications
Applications are open for the UNDP and Al Ghurair Game Development Bootcamp, inviting UAE nationals aged 18 to 35 to develop practical game creation skills, with a deadline of October 30, 2026.
The programme, run by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation in collaboration with HP, offers Core and Advanced training tracks aimed at helping aspiring developers build playable games and prepare for careers in the industry.
The Core Track covers game design, C# programming fundamentals, AI-assisted coding and the development of a first playable prototype. The Advanced Track focuses on 3D development, more advanced workflows and a Demo Day showcase.
The programme is open to eligible Emiratis without previous programming experience.
The latest announcement also outlines a five-stage learning journey, beginning with game design basics such as game mechanics, design thinking and level design.
Participants then move into C# fundamentals, learning programming logic and writing their first lines of code, before exploring how AI tools can assist with game scripting and development workflows.
The prototype-building stage focuses on creating a first playable 2D game, testing and improving the project, and preparing for more advanced development.
The final stage is a Demo Day showcase, where participants can present completed game prototypes to industry professionals and receive feedback.
By the end of the bootcamp, participants are expected to have developed a playable prototype, a portfolio piece and practical skills to support their entry into the game development industry.
The official bootcamp programme page provides additional background on the initiative, including its training pathways and support for aspiring Emirati game developers, as well as the application link.
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