SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals in the UAE
Sustainable Development Goal 17 (SDG 17) emphasizes the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development across the globe. The UAE has recognized the significance of collaboration and has made substantial efforts to forge strategic partnerships both domestically and internationally to enhance its development agenda.
Government Initiatives for SDG 17
Global Cooperation: The UAE actively participates in various international organizations, such as the United Nations, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the Arab League. These platforms enable the country to collaborate on shared challenges, exchange best practices, and contribute to global development initiatives.
Bilateral and Multilateral Agreements: The UAE has established numerous bilateral and multilateral agreements with other countries to enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, technology transfer, and sustainable development. These agreements facilitate knowledge sharing and resource mobilization.
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): The UAE government encourages public-private partnerships to leverage private sector expertise and resources in achieving development goals. These partnerships have been instrumental in various sectors, including infrastructure, healthcare, and renewable energy.
Investment in Development Projects: The UAE invests in development projects around the world, particularly in less developed regions. Through its foreign aid programs, the UAE supports initiatives aimed at poverty alleviation, education, and sustainable development, contributing to global efforts to achieve the SDGs.
Engagement with Civil Society: The UAE promotes collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society to address social challenges. These partnerships enhance community engagement and promote inclusive approaches to development.
SDG 17 at Al Ain University
Al Ain University (AAU) is committed to advancing SDG 17 through various initiatives that promote partnerships and collaborative efforts:
Academic Collaborations: AAU engages in partnerships with local and international universities to enhance research and educational offerings. These collaborations facilitate student exchange programs, joint research projects, and the sharing of academic resources.
Industry Partnerships: The university collaborates with various industries to align its academic programs with market needs. These partnerships provide students with practical training opportunities and enhance their employability, while also supporting the development of the local economy.
Community Engagement Initiatives: AAU actively participates in community service projects that address local challenges. By partnering with governmental and non-governmental organizations, the university contributes to social development and capacity building within the community.
Research and Innovation Networks: AAU promotes research collaborations with governmental agencies, research institutions, and the private sector. These partnerships foster innovation and contribute to the development of solutions for pressing societal challenges.
Sustainability and Global Citizenship: The university emphasizes the importance of sustainability and global citizenship in its educational programs. Students are encouraged to engage in initiatives that promote social responsibility and international cooperation, aligning with the principles of SDG 17.
Conclusion
The UAE's commitment to SDG 17 is reflected in its proactive approach to fostering strategic partnerships at various levels to achieve sustainable development goals. Through global cooperation, public-private partnerships, and investment in development projects, the government strengthens its ability to address complex challenges. Al Ain University complements these efforts by promoting collaborations in education, research, and community engagement, thereby contributing to the broader goal of fostering partnerships for sustainable development.
AAU ranks 5th in UAE and 228th in Asia by QS Ranking for Sustainability 2024
Al Ain University has achieved a new milestone by securing the 5th position within the United Arab Emirates, 228th in Asia, and 821-840 worldwide, according to the QS World Universities Ranking for Sustainability 2024. This ranking assesses the ability of global universities to achieve sustainable development goals.
The ranking assesses universities' performance against the complete set of 17th United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It includes three main dimensions: firstly, the environmental impact, encompassing five indicators: equality, knowledge exchange, educational impact, employability and opportunities, and quality of life for universities. Secondly, the social impact, includes three indicators: sustainable institutions, sustainable education, and sustainable research. And thirdly, governance.
This ranking reflects Al Ain University's initiatives and efforts to address environmental and social challenges. It underscores its commitment to contributing to achieving sustainable development goals across all areas, demonstrating its dedication to preparing new generations to confront climate challenges and provide advanced ideas and solutions in this field.
Dr. Noor Al-Deen Atatrah, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees, stated, "The importance of sustainability-focused rankings lies in the fact that environmental sustainability is a central point of interest at the local, Arab, and global levels. This has been evident in the United Arab Emirates, with its significant focus on climate issues and sustainable development, prominently showcased in recent times through hosting COP28 at Expo Dubai. This achievement is a clear testament to Al Ain University's strategy and commitment to sustainable development, aligning with the wise leadership's directions in the country towards comprehensive development."
Prof. Ghaleb Al-Refae, the AAU president, affirmed that Al Ain University, as a leading academic institution, is committed to playing its role in achieving sustainable development goals and serving the nation, especially in light of the global emphasis on attaining the Sustainable Development Goals endorsed by the United Nations. He emphasized that the university utilizes scientific research to shed light on climate and environmental issues, among others, and puts forth innovative ideas to find effective solutions. In addition, he highlighted the series of events and activities organized by the university, contributing to the achievement of all 17th Sustainable Development Goals.
Dr. Nazih Khaddaj Mallat, Vice President for Accreditations and Quality Assurance, stated that Al Ain University, through its objectives, policies, mission, and the members of its academic and administrative bodies, seeks to enhance sustainable responsibility through its core functions in education, scientific research, and the development of academic programs. This includes both curricular and extracurricular activities, as well as community service. He emphasized that the university is constantly striving to excel and progress on all fronts, achieved through the concerted efforts of all involved.
Al Ain University is a strategic partner in the Times Higher Education Forum
Al Ain University (AAU) participated as a strategic partner in the activities of the Times Higher Education Forum, "Accelerating Action on Sustainable Development Goal 6," which is related to ensuring access to clean water and sanitation services for all as part of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals - 2030. The event was held at the United Arab Emirates University and featured the participation of a selected group of leaders and experts in the education sector. Dr. Nazih Khaddaj Mallat (Vice President – Accreditation & QA, AAU) also participated as a speaker in the forum titled “Against the clock: How can the global research community best coordinate to meet SDG 6 targets?”. The forum aims to explore global research collaboration for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6, ensuring clean water and sanitation access. It also considers maintaining collaboration for long-term challenges and the role of research centers in expediting progress.
Dr. Nazih emphasized that AAU is committed to contributing anything that promotes sustainable development goals. Therefore, participating in this forum contributes, to building strategic partnerships and gaining insights into the best academic practices in addressing innovative solutions to the challenges of clean water and sanitation in sustainable and effective ways.
AAU Ranked TOP 500 according to “THE World University Rankings 2025”
Al Ain University (AAU) has been ranked among the top 500 (out of 2,500+ universities) worldwide according to “THE World University Rankings 2025.” This ranking reflects the university's outstanding educational development and prestigious academic reputation in the international academic community, solidifying its position as a leading academic institution.
This ranking is a significant achievement for Al Ain University, as it enhances its academic reputation regionally and internationally and demonstrates its ability to compete with leading global universities. This international recognition also supports the university's efforts to attract distinguished students and faculty members while increasing academic and research collaboration opportunities with prestigious educational institutions worldwide. Furthermore, the ranking strengthens the confidence of strategic partners and stakeholders in the quality of education and research at Al Ain University, opening up new avenues for development and expansion.
THE World University Rankings 2025 are the only global performance tables that judge research-intensive universities across all their core missions: teaching, research, knowledge transfers, and international outlook. They use 18 calibrated indicators to provide the most comprehensive and balanced comparisons, trusted by students, academics, university leaders, industry, and governments. The performance indicators are grouped into five areas: Teaching (the learning environment); Research environment (volume, income, and reputation); Research quality (citation impact, research strength, research excellence, and research influence); International outlook (staff, students, and research); and Industry (income and patents). AAU has made a remarkable advancement across all these performance indicators.
Prof. Ghaleb Al Refae (AAU president) appraised the achievement of AAU by appreciating the efforts made by all the stakeholders who are linked in this journey towards growth. He also emphasized the university’s commitment to enhancing education and scientific research by fostering an integrated learning environment that embraces innovation and modern technology. He pointed out that this achievement reflects Al Ain University's vision to be at the forefront of leading educational institutions globally. He expressed his confidence that the university will continue to achieve further success at both local and international levels.
Prof. Nazih Khaddaj Mallat (Vice President- Accreditation & QA) is thrilled by this remarkable achievement of Al Ain University, which is recognized by the esteemed organization Times Higher Education. He acknowledges the collective efforts of all stakeholders involved in diligently working toward this recognition, achieving high scores across all five key indicators. He added that this achievement results from a clear strategic vision and continuous collaboration between all colleges and departments within the university and noted that this progress strengthens Al Ain University's position as one of the leading educational institutions in the region. He also emphasized the importance of improving performance and developing academic programs in line with international standards to maintain this distinguished ranking level.
Al Ain University is the "Best IELTS Accredited Test Center" for the Third Consecutive Year
The English Language Center at Al Ain University has achieved a remarkable accomplishment by winning the Top Performer Award in the United Arab Emirates for the third consecutive year, along with the Top Performer Award in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, while maintaining its distinguished status as a Diamond Member of the British Council Partnership Programme.
These prestigious awards acknowledge Al Ain University's outstanding performance and its dedication to excellence in organizing and managing IELTS tests.
This success is a shared triumph; from the dedicated administrative and technical professionals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to the English Language Center staff who interact directly with IELTS test takers.
Dr. Abdelghani Remache, Director of the English Language and Translation program and director of the English Language Center at AAU, said on this occasion: “Winning top place for the third consecutive time signifies more than just an award; it underscores Al Ain University’s commitment to achieving high standards. These awards highlight the effectiveness of AAU’s strategies and the unwavering dedication of its higher administration to fostering an environment of excellence in all domains.”
Al Ain University offers both Academic and General Training versions of the IELTS exams, whether paper-based or computer-delivered, in addition to the IELTS for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) test. The center is considered an official and accredited site by the British Council to conduct the IELTS exam for visas and immigration. These tests are available to candidates at the English Language Center on both the Al Ain and Abu Dhabi campuses. The center also provides a variety of exam dates to accommodate all applicants, ensuring smooth exam administration and prompt delivery of results.
Al Ain University Among Top 100 Global Institutions According to THE Impact Rankings 2024
Al Ain University (AAU) has been ranked among the TOP 100 universities worldwide in Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024, after being ranked among the top 200 globally last year.
The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings evaluate universities based on the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which include: no poverty, zero hunger, good health and well-being, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, decent work and economic growth, industry, innovation, and infrastructure, reduced inequalities, sustainable cities and communities, responsible consumption and production, climate action, life below water, life on land, peace, justice and strong institutions, and partnerships for the goals.
Al Ain University also, topped the ranking for three main SDGs by securing; # 11 (SDG 4- Quality Education), # 5 (SDG 5 -Gender Equality), and #37 (SDG 8- Decent Work and Economic Growth) among the 1963 listed universities worldwide by the ‘THE Impact Ranking 2024’. These achievements confirm the university's commitment to achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing its positive impact on society and the world.
Prof. Ghaleb Al Refae (AAU President) indicated that the global ranking results confirm the AAU’s commitment to achieving the highest quality standards in education in line with the sustainable development goals, in addition to providing a sustainable educational environment for students. He affirmed that the university's progress in the rankings demonstrates its prestigious position as an active contributor to achieving the sustainable development goals through its strategic plans, scientific research, various initiatives, and the continuous diligent work of all university staff to achieve more successes.
Prof. Nazih Khaddaj Mallat (Vice President for Accreditation & QA), stated: "This achievement reflects our commitment to excellence and sustainability and making a positive impact on our global community. This accomplishment is the result of the concerted efforts at the university from all parties. We extend our thanks to the faculty members, staff, students, and partners who contributed to this success. We will continue to strive together to achieve more accomplishments."
Al Ain University aims to enhance its academic standing and reputation both locally and globally in the field of sustainable development by focusing on improving the quality of scientific research, organizing conferences, launching initiatives, and continuing to work towards achieving more goals in the future.
AAU is ranked 552 according to “QS World University Rankings” 2025
Al Ain University (AAU) has been ranked 552 worldwide according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. This reflects the university's outstanding performance in terms of educational development and its prestigious academic reputation in the international academic community, solidifying its position as a leading academic institution. The QS ranking is one of the most renowned global rankings for benchmarking universities, as its methodologies rely on analyzing and measuring the academic attributes of institutions, such as the level of education, quality of scientific research outputs, and the scientific and professional capabilities of graduates.
This progress indicates the notable improvement of the university’s achievement in ranking indicators, including academic reputation, employer opinions, faculty-student ratio, international research network, web impact, percentage of staff with doctoral degrees, percentage of international faculty members, and percentage of international students.
Prof. Ghaleb Al Refae (AAU president), stated that Al Ain University's progress in global rankings attests to the success of its continuous visions and strategies in achieving remarkable results. He encouraged the university staff to continue supporting the institution in all its future endeavors. He emphasized that the progress serves as a clear indication of its prestigious international status and the quality of academic education and scientific research provided by the university, which it continuously seeks to develop. He added, "The journey of university rankings, especially with ranking platforms like QS, is an exceptional journey where we prove our ability to achieve the best. Every time we advance in the ranking, we remember our commitment and determination to achieve more success and to provide high-quality education. We hope to achieve greater accomplishments and move a step ahead in future."
Dr. Nazih Khaddaj Mallat (Vice President for Accreditation and Quality Assurance), expressed his gratitude and appreciation to everyone who contributed to this achievement, which highlights Al Ain University's ongoing efforts to enhance its offerings to students, academics, researchers, and the community. He noted that the university's progress in the rankings confirms its commitment to staying abreast of developments in education and the rapid transformations in educational systems worldwide. This progress also demonstrates excellent performance and dedicated work in improving the quality of education and scientific research within a distinctive learning environment. He affirmed that Al Ain University remains committed to continuously improving its academic programs, preparing distinguished scientific research, developing training, and enhancing both the learning skills of students and the expertise of faculty members.
AAU Achieves International Institutional Accreditation by QAA (UK)
Al Ain University (AAU) has achieved a significant milestone in accreditation. For the very first time in AAU’s history, AAU has secured institutional international accreditation from the “Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA)”- United Kingdom. The International Quality Review (IQR) is a rigorous process that benchmarks global higher education institutions against international Quality Assurance standards, of the “Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance in the European Higher Education Area (ESG)”.
Al Ain University successfully completed its IQR and has been awarded global quality accreditation by QAA. Overall, the review team concluded that AAU meets all 10 internal quality assurance standards outlined in the ESG. Securing IQR accreditation from QAA allows AAU to highlight our quality standards on an international stage and facilitates dialogue with institutions worldwide.
Prof. Ghaleb El Refae, AAU President, said; “Securing Institutional International Accreditation was a set objective of the (2021-2025) AAU’s Strategic and Operational Plan and achieving it within the stipulated set target is noteworthy”. He added; “This goal was achieved on time, highlighting the University's commitment to successfully meeting its objectives. This accomplishment underscores Al Ain University's effective quality assurance and adherence to international standards, which enhances the University's global standing and encourages us to continue striving for development and excellence”.
Dr. Nazih Khaddaj Mallat, Vice-President (Accreditation & Quality Assurance), said: “We are immensely proud to achieve a significant milestone by obtaining institutional accreditation through the QAA International Quality Review. This international recognition, obtained after rigorous assessment against the 10 European Standards and Guidelines for internal quality assurance, directly impacts the student learning experience and underscores our commitment to excellence in education, continuous improvement, and adherence to international best practices. At the end, we do extend our heartfelt thanks to QAA, the Review Team, and all our internal and external stakeholders for their invaluable contributions to this accomplishment.”
Al Ain University Awarded “5 Stars” by QS Stars Rating Systems 2024
According to QS Stars Rating Systems 2024, Al Ain University (AAU) has achieved a remarkable milestone by obtaining the “5 Stars” institution overall, and in each of the categories: Teaching, Employability, Internationalization, Facilities, Social Responsibility, Inclusiveness, Research and in Pharmacy & Pharmacology (Program).
The "QS Stars" rating reflects Al Ain University's outstanding performance across key indicators that play a pivotal role in the success and development of higher education institutions. This rating is considered the highest of its kind as universities are evaluated across a wide range of important performance indicators according to predefined international standards and are awarded ratings from one star to five stars (highest rating) based on their performance.
Prof. Ghaleb Al Refae (AAU President), stated that this achievement adds to the university's distinguished academic record of accomplishments, enhancing its position as a locally and globally outstanding educational institution. Also, it is a clear indication of Al Ain University's excellence in providing high-quality education within a conducive learning environment which ensures our commitment to comprehensive excellence.
Dr. Nazih Khaddaj Mallat (Vice President, Accreditation & Quality Assurance) said that the association with the “QS Stars Rating System” from the past to present has indeed helped AAU to move way forward with some focus areas. AAU would be focusing on other criteria and indicators of the QS Stars Rating System and hopes to improve more in the future. He also thanked QS for such recognition and international exposure.
Al Ain University signs an MOU with the "Educators Without Borders" organization
Al Ain University (AAU) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Educators Without Borders International (EWBI), to develop partnerships and enhance cooperation with the community.
The MOU was signed by Prof. Ghaleb Al-Refae, AAU President, and Omar Al-Buraiki, the Secretary-General of EWBI, at Al Ain University (Al Ain Campus).
This memorandum aims to attract a number of lecturers and experts working at the university to participate in the volunteer events and activities implemented by Educators Without Borders International as volunteer trainers by providing training programs for teachers, administrators, students, and parents in needy and less fortunate areas.
The terms of the memorandum also aim to train teachers, provide an opportunity for educational and administrative staff and students to participate in various events and activities, support and facilitate conducting research and studies and benefit from capabilities, and exchange experiences. It also aims to provide lessons, lectures, and educational workshops that contribute to the development of education in the targeted areas, and full support in the field of research and scientific publishing, and promote the values of volunteer work among professors and students.
It is worth mentioning that Educators Without Borders International is an international organization based in Geneva. It seeks to provide training, rehabilitation, and awareness services for students, teachers, and administrators to improve the quality of education and enhance access to education for the less fortunate in areas that live in difficult conditions due to poverty, wars, and natural disasters.
Al Ain University Strengthens Partnerships with Leading Engineering and Technology Companies
In line with its strategy to form partnerships with the industrial sector to support the educational journey, Al Ain University in its Abu Dhabi campus has signed cooperation agreements with major companies in the fields of engineering and technology, namely Federal Electronics and MVP, a software and gaming applications company.
On behalf of Al Ain University, the agreements were signed by Dr. Qutaiba Thibyan, Dean of the College of Engineering. Federal Electronics was represented by Engineer Mansour Adel, General Manager of Human Resources and Business Development, and MVP was represented by Engineer Ali Al Hammadi, the company's CEO.
The Memoranda of Understanding were signed in the presence of Prof. Ghaleb El Refae, President of the University, and the College of Engineering administration during the Global Digital Health Conference – Knowledge Exchange and Empowerment 2024, which took place at the university from September 24-26, 2024. These agreements aim to provide practical training opportunities for engineering students across various disciplines, as well as to coordinate joint workshops on entrepreneurship within all engineering fields, in line with labor market demands. The agreements also seek to enhance students' knowledge and skills in engineering, technology, and environmental sustainability, enabling them to apply their academic studies in real-world work environments through lectures and specialized workshops.
A Research Project at Al Ain University Receives a Grant of One Million Dirhams from Aspire Fund
“Sustainable Universities Initiative” at Al Ain University
The College of Education, Humanities and Social Sciences at Al Ain University, Al Ain campus, hosted Ms. Amani Bin Humaid, Ms. Aisha Al Mazroui, Coordinators of the Sustainable Universities Initiative at Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, and Mr. Ahmad Al Rmaithi, Representative of Borouge, to present an awareness lecture on sustainable universities initiative implemented by the EAD in cooperation with Borouge, in the presence of the faculty members and students.
This initiative aims to increase sustainable practices in Abu Dhabi's universities through a range of elements, first; Green audit, includes five species land, climate change, biodiversity, water and waste. The agency provides intensive training for university students by forming teams of interdisciplinary students. Second: Sustainability Measures Project (SAP): the agency establishes a student club at each university to undertake an environmental project that benefits the community. Third: The Green Youth Council: Students from different universities and scientific disciplines meet periodically to discuss ideas for building sustainable communities. The Council is recognized by various international organizations, including the World Summit in Japan, a forum where youth can discuss innovative ideas and projects that can promote sustainable societies for our future generations.
The aim of this lecture is to contribute positively in developing a sustainable environment and climate change issues which attract the attention of all countries, including the United Arab Emirates.
In addition, Al Ain University is keen to strengthen partnership with government, private and environmental institutions to raise environmental awareness and sustainable development.
AAU participates in Sustainable Growth in Higher Education
QS, in collaboration with different partners, organized the “QS MAPLE 2021” virtual conference and exhibition under the theme “The Future Today: Sustainable growth towards 2030”. As part of its “Community Engagement” strategy, Al Ain University (AAU) participated in the “QS MAPLE 2021” by registering several delegates from various entities (Senior Management, HR, Students’ Affairs, and Colleges).
The workshop's essence is to look at the next ten years of innovations in the region and how they can sustainably grow towards targets, as Higher education in the Arab region and Africa is undergoing transition, and the region is preparing for further advancements.
Around 1000 international delegates, from 72 countries (throughout the regions and beyond), attended the conference. Among those participants, there were over 60 senior academics and industry professionals. The three-days virtual event featured keynotes, debates, panel discussions, and case studies while also unpacking opportunities to network and build strategic partnerships.
Moreover, the conference ended with 2 roundtable discussions, including 35 university presidents to discuss sustainability in the region, as follows: Achieving a Sustainable and economic university while ensuring lifelong learning for students, and building sustainable systems in the Arab region that provide equal rights between all genders.
Prof. Ghaleb El Refae, AAU President, said, such international platforms provide an opportunity to meet academic expertise from different countries and these kinds of healthy discussions help to exchange knowledge, influencing for a sustainable future.
Dr. Nazih Khaddaj Mallat, Vice President for Accreditation and Quality Assurance, stated that having a combined vision can help achieve fast. He emphasized that this initiative remembers all of us to be more updated and innovative to lead higher education towards sustainable growth, He also thanked the QS and its partners for organizing the “QS MAPLE 2021” and helping to set a 10-year target to achieve a sustainable future in Higher Education.
Partnerships for the Goals
In its efforts to work toward achieving SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals, Al Ain University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Educators Without Borders International (EWB). Prof. El Refae indicated that Al Ain University recognizes the importance of partnerships with local and international organizations in the implementation of the UAE 2030 strategic plan agenda toward a more sustainable future. He stressed that AAU is committed to its contribution to the mission of providing education locally and globally, especially to communities in disadvantaged conditions.
This strategic collaboration aims to exchange expertise in teacher preparation training, consultancy and research between the two parties, and manifests joint efforts to serve humanitarian and charitable work. Within the terms of this MoU, AAU provides training support from educational experts from the College of Education to teachers in disadvantaged communities internationally through EWB. This collaboration also serves as a catalyst for future research and relevant events that serve the realization of the UAE’s ambitious vision for national and global sustainable development.