The UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has started a national award to honor the best universities in the country the best academics and the best strategic partners for their work in higher education and scientific research.
This event is supported by Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Education Human Development and Community Development Council. This award aims to inspire the excellence and new ideas while making connections, between higher education institutions and the business world.
This effort is part of the UAEs plan to create an economy based on knowledge. One that values the people and the organizations that are making a real difference through teaching, research and helping the community throughout the country.
According to Sheikh Abdullah, investing in people remains central to the nation’s long-term development, with higher education playing a critical role in preparing future talent and supporting sustainable economic growth.
The award will recognise achievements across several categories, including higher education institutions, faculty members and partners whose work has contributed to improving educational quality, advancing scientific research and creating practical solutions aligned with national priorities. Winners will receive both financial rewards and honorary recognition for their achievements, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to celebrating excellence in the sector.
Officials said the programme is intended to encourage innovative teaching methods, strengthen research capabilities and promote closer cooperation between universities, government entities and the private sector. By highlighting successful models of academic excellence, the initiative also seeks to inspire institutions to transform research into practical solutions that benefit society and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
The launch comes as the UAE continues implementing reforms across its higher education sector, including digital transformation initiatives, streamlined qualification recognition services and policies aimed at aligning university programmes with labour market demands. The new award is expected to complement these efforts by promoting a culture of continuous improvement and positioning the UAE as a regional and global hub for higher education, research and innovation.
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