UAE, Abu Dhabi, 12 November 2024: In line with the UAE’s commitment to global space leadership, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE Space Agency. This collaboration seeks to promote innovation in space science, research and technology in line with the UAE’s National Space Strategy 2030.

The MoU was signed by Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of ADU and HE Eng. Salem Butti Salem Al Qubaisi, Director General of the UAE Space Agency, at ADU’s main campus, in the presence of distinguished representatives from both organizations.

This strategic partnership aims to engage ADU students and researchers in pioneering academic and practical space initiatives, accelerating the UAE’s role in the global space community. The collaboration seeks to strengthen national capabilities in the space arena and reinforce the UAE’s economic growth and leadership across the regional and international space sectors.

His Excellency Salem Butti Al Qubaisi, Director-General of UAE Space Agency, said: “This agreement supports our strategy and vision to strengthen partnerships with academic institutions in the UAE, supporting the development of our capabilities in the national space sector and directing research towards national priorities. It also aims to encourage ambitious scientific and technological projects, support startups in this vital sector, facilitate the transfer and localization of knowledge, and create innovative solutions that keep pace with rapid developments in the field of space, supporting sustainable development within this sector.” 

Al Qubaisi added: “Through these partnerships, we seek to develop joint research projects that contribute to finding solutions to future challenges in the space sector. We also aspire to empower Emirati students and researchers and pave the way for their efficient participation in advanced projects that contribute to reinforcing the UAE’s leadership.”

Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University (ADU), said: “In an era where space exploration and technology and redefining the possibilities of scientific discovery, economic growth and national security, this partnership could not be more timely. The UAE’s space sector is a vital contributor to a future powered by innovation and knowledge, and we are delighted to partner with the esteemed UAE Space Agency, presenting our students exceptional opportunities to contribute to the nation’s rapidly evolving space sector. This collaboration reflects our commitment to empowering the next generation of scientists, researchers and innovators, who will drive transformative breakthroughs in space science and technology. By providing access to cutting-edge research and development prospects, we are further reinforcing ADU’s role in shaping projects that will strengthen the UAE’s position as a global leader in space exploration and contribute to its knowledge-based economy.”

The MoU outlines a collaborative focus on research and development (R&D) initiatives aligned with the UAE’s Space Science and Technology Policy (SSTP) and roadmap. In addition, ADU and UAE Space Agency will identify and pursue projects that promote the UAE’s national space activities and initiatives within the Space Economic Zones, as well as maximize resource efficiency through the Space Facility Sharing program. The partnership will also prioritize risk management to enhance awareness of space-related risks among students and the wider community.

To know more about Abu Dhabi University’s programs, please visit: https://www.adu.ac.ae/

About Abu Dhabi University:

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) is one of the region’s leading academic institutions, translating the UAE Government’s National Agenda to deliver internationally accredited academic programs and world-class research.

Established in 2003, with campuses across Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Dubai, the University serves around 8,000 students from over 100 nationalities. The University is home to five colleges across different disciplines including arts and sciences, business, engineering, health sciences, and law, while offering a diverse range of over 50 undergraduate and graduate programs.

According to the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, ADU ranks 191 globally. Additionally, it ranks second in the UAE and 172nd globally for its research quality, and it is among the top three universities in the UAE, while holding the number one position in the teaching pillar. Additionally, THE Rankings has recognized the University’s Business and Economics subject area as number one in the UAE and the Arab region.

The University has made an impressive performance in THE Young University Rankings 2024, ranking in the 60th position globally among the world’s best universities that are 50 years or younger. Furthermore, the University came in 89th place in the prestigious THE Asia University Rankings 2024 and was ranked first in the UAE for graduate employability as per the Global University Employability Ranking 2023-24.

Parallelly, ADU ranks in 501 globally, according to the 2025 edition of the QS World University Rankings and received a 5-star rating in the 2022 QS Stars rating.

ADU continues to empower faculty and students with state-of-the-art resources, facilities, and learning opportunities that foster innovation and support research-based problem-solving. The University maintains strong international collaborations with leading academic institutions and public and private sector organizations, with institutional accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges’ Senior College and University Commission (WASC).

To know more about ADU, follow on X, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube.

Media Contacts
Weber Shandwick for Abu Dhabi University
Sara Farrah
Sfarrah@webershandwick.com