A Dubai teenager has etched his name into the UAE’s academic history after becoming the first Emirati student to win an individual gold medal at the International Economics Olympiad (IEO), one of the world’s most prestigious competitions for high school students in economics, finance and business.
Seventeen year old Ali-Mansur Valiyev, a Grade 12 student at Dubai College, secured the historic achievement after outperforming more than 200 participants from 56 countries. His victory marks a significant milestone for the UAE and highlights the country’s growing presence in international academic competitions.
From Curiosity to Competition
Valiyev’s interest in economics began years before he formally studied the subject in school. As a middle school student, he developed a habit of following global news, business trends and financial developments, fascinated by how economic decisions shape everyday life.
That curiosity gradually evolved into a genuine passion. By the time economics became part of his studies in Grade 9, he had already built a strong foundation through independent reading and research.
A Journey That Took Two Years
Representing the UAE on the international stage was no easy task.
Valiyev entered the country’s national Economics Olympiad programme in Grade 10, joining thousands of students competing for a place on the national team. Over the next two years, he completed intensive online training sessions, workshops and a series of challenging selection exams.
Only five students were ultimately chosen to represent the UAE, with Valiyev earning one of those coveted places.
Facing One of the World’s Toughest Academic Challenges
The International Economics Olympiad is designed to test far more than textbook knowledge.
Participants were assessed through multiple rounds, including a rigorous multiple-choice examination on economics and finance, an essay analysing global economic issues, and a business case competition that required teams to solve a real-world economic problem.
This year’s business challenge asked students to evaluate the potential benefits of establishing a new economic free zone in the UAE.
Valiyev described the business case as the most demanding part of the competition, with teams given only a short period to analyse data, develop recommendations and prepare their final presentation.
Hard Work Beyond the Classroom
While official training played an important role, Valiyev believes much of his success came from consistent self-study.
Knowing that the Olympiad could cover a wide range of topics, he regularly explored concepts beyond the school curriculum, reading about economics, finance and public policy during his free time.
Preparing for the competition also taught him valuable life skills. Managing schoolwork alongside Olympiad training required discipline, careful planning and a consistent daily routine.
A Moment to Remember
Despite spending two years preparing for the competition, Valiyev said he never expected to become the UAE’s first individual gold medallist.
The winners were announced online, with names revealed category by category. As the bronze and silver medals were announced, he continued to wait anxiously alongside his mother.
When his name finally appeared among the gold medallists, it marked not only a personal triumph but also a landmark achievement for the UAE.
Making a Difference
Outside the classroom, Valiyev is equally passionate about expanding educational opportunities for others.
He founded EcoEducation, an initiative that promotes financial literacy, sustainability and global citizenship among young people. Through online learning programmes and community outreach, the project has already reached more than 10,000 learners.
He has also pursued research exploring the intersection of economics, artificial intelligence and public policy, reflecting his interest in using technology to tackle real-world challenges.
Future Ambitions
Valiyev now hopes to study economics and computer science at a leading university in the UK or the US.
His long-term ambition is to combine economics with emerging technologies to develop practical solutions for global challenges, particularly in areas where data and innovation can improve people’s lives.
His historic gold medal not only represents a personal achievement but also signals the growing strength of the UAE’s young academic talent on the international stage. It is a reminder that dedication, curiosity and perseverance can open doors to achievements that once seemed out of reach.
