United Arab Emirates University Board of Trustees Concludes Annual Retreat in Abu Dhabi

The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) Board of Trustees convened its annual retreat on 19–20 November 2025 at the Park Hyatt, Saadiyat Island, under the chairmanship of His Excellency Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to His Highness the President of the UAE and Chancellor of UAEU.

Key Discussions and Presentations

Advancing AI-Driven Transformation

The Board received presentations on the integration of AI across UAEU’s strategic projects, academic offerings, and research centres. AI subject-matter experts provided insights into global AI trends at leading higher education institutions. The presentations highlighted how AI is enhancing teaching innovation, research productivity, and student support systems, while also strengthening institutional efficiency. The Board commended the University’s progress in embedding AI as a core enabler of its academic and operational transformation.

2030 Financial Model

The Board also considered the presentation of the proposed University’s 2030 Financial Model, outlining long-term sustainability pathways, revenue diversification strategies, and financial priorities required to support UAEU’s transformation agenda and expanding academic and research portfolio.

University Ranking

The Board noted UAEU’s continued progress in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. The University advanced to the 201–250 band, up from 251–300 last year. The most significant improvement was in the Research Quality pillar, where UAEU is now ranked 82nd globally, compared with 139th in the previous year.

Beyond overall ranking gains, the University advanced in key dimensions of global reputation and societal impact. In the Times Higher Education Global Employability University Ranking 2026, UAEU climbed to 225th, a five-place improvement, reflecting increasing employer confidence in its graduates. In the QS Sustainability Rankings 2026, covering more than 2,000 institutions worldwide, UAEU is now 318th globally and 54th in Asia, improving from 343rd and 58th last year. The University also maintained its position as the top-ranked institution in the UAE across the three core pillars of Environmental Impact, Social Impact, and Governance.

Key Decisions

The Board endorsed the Strategic KPIs and corresponding performance targets that will guide the University’s 2027–2029 Strategy. It also approved the introduction of two new academic programs: the Bachelor of Science in Space Sciences and the Bachelor of Arts in History and Archaeology.

Closing Remarks

His Excellency Zaki Nusseibeh expressed his appreciation to Board members, committee chairs, and presenters for their valuable contributions, noting that the retreat’s decisions provide a robust foundation for UAEU’s continued advancement and national impact.