AAU’s BOT Discusses Expansion of Academic Programs and Establishment of a New Research Center

Posted on:Jan 21, 2026

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Chaired by Sheikh Theyab bin Tahnoon bin Mohammad Al Nahyan, the Board of Trustees of Al Ain University convened its meeting for the Academic Year 2025–2026 at the University’s Abu Dhabi campus. During the meeting, the Board discussed several strategic themes related to the University’s developmental journey, academic and research achievements, and future directions.

The meeting commenced with a welcoming address by Sheikh Theyab bin Tahnoon bin Mohammad Al Nahyan, who emphasized the vital role of Al Ain University as a national educational institution, preparing qualified graduates capable of keeping pace with rapid transformations in education, scientific research, and sustainable development. He underscored the importance of continuously improving the quality of educational outcomes and aligning them with community needs and labor-market requirements to achieve sustainable developmental impact.

Dr. Noor Al Deen Atatreh, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees, presented updates on the University’s infrastructural development at both campuses. These included the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, the development of laboratories at the College of Communication and Media, and the enhancement of recreational facilities and services, in line with the aspirations of students and staff and in support of a modern, stimulating, and interactive university environment.

The Board also reviewed the academic developments achieved over the past period, particularly the renewal of academic accreditations for a number of the University’s programs, reflecting its continued commitment to quality assurance and academic excellence. In addition, ongoing efforts to support scientific research, promote a culture of academic publishing, and expand high-quality presence in international databases were highlighted, underscoring the University’s growing research profile.

Prof. Ghaleb El Refae, President of Al Ain University, reviewed the University’s notable progress in international rankings. Al Ain University was ranked among the top 500 universities worldwide according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, achieved 558th place globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026, and advanced in Arab rankings by securing 17th place in the Times Higher Education Arab University Rankings 2026 and 25th place in the QS Arab University Rankings 2026. In addition, the University ranked 15th in the Arab Universities Union Ranking 2025, reflecting the accelerated pace of development across various domains.

The Board discussed the new academic programs introduced at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels, reviewing the rising student enrollment and the extent to which these programs align with labor market needs and with the University’s academic orientation toward future-focused disciplines and applied knowledge.

Within the framework of community engagement, the meeting reviewed a series of upcoming international conferences and scientific events to be organized by the University. Among the most prominent is the annual student conference, to be held under the patronage of Sheikha Shamma bint Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, under the theme “Artificial Intelligence Without Limits: Students’ Journey Toward the Future.” In addition, the University will organize the Fourth Postgraduate Symposium in Health and Biomedical Sciences in collaboration with Monash University Malaysia, as well as the College of Business Conference on Smart Management and Green Technology. The Board also noted the cultural, scientific, and sports competitions organized by the University for school students in Al Ain and Abu Dhabi at the beginning of the academic year, aimed at enhancing students’ cultural awareness, knowledge, and skills.

In a strategic step aligned with the UAE’s national priorities in renewable energy, water resource management, and environmental sustainability, the Board approved the establishment of the Al Ain University Research Center for Energy, Water, and Sustainability, strengthening the University’s research role in supporting national priorities.

At the conclusion of the meeting, emphasis was placed on the importance of further enhancing the University’s role in serving the community and aligning its academic and research achievements with societal needs, in line with the objectives of the UAE Vision 2031 and reflecting the accomplishments achieved during the past year within the framework of the Year of Community. Sheikh Theyab bin Tahnoon bin Mohammad Al Nahyan concluded the meeting by reaffirming his continued support for the University’s journey, the strengthening of its governance, and the integration of its academic, research, and community efforts, thereby reinforcing its position as a leading educational institution at both the local and regional levels.

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