Although a young institution, in 2018 we had 7000 students enrolled in our undergraduate and postgraduate programs, our alumni numbers had reached over 9000, and in the three consecutive years the employment rate of Abu Dhabi University graduates had averaged an impressive 90% within a year of graduation.
You will be joining an institution recognized internationally for the quality and relevance of its education and research. This is evident in our global rankings: we are in the top 2.8% of world universities and in the top 150 universities under 50 years of age (QS World University Rankings 2018). Diversity of cultures and talents underpins the success of the world’s top universities as well as the most successful cities. The QS rankings show us to be among the world’s elite universities for the diversity of our faculty (top three) and students (top nine). With most of the world’s nations represented among our students and staff, you will meet with, learn from, and form friendships with talent from across the world.
The quality of our programs is also evident in the accreditations we hold. Colleges of Business and Engineering have achieved the prestigious AACSB, EQUIS and ABET international accreditations. All of the University’s programs are internationally accredited by the Western Commission of Schools and Colleges (WASC). You can rest assured that your Abu Dhabi University degree will be recognised and respected by employers and higher education institutions internationally.
Abu Dhabi University’s success stems from clarity of vision and values. We regard students and faculty as a community of scholars, together pursuing knowledge, supported by great professional staff and excellent estate and facilities. We continue to invest in our facilities: in 2017 we added a new building to expand our laboratory provision for engineering and science, completed an extension to the student dormitories, and updated our facilities overall. In September 2017, we opened our Dubai Campus, located in an iconic building in Dubai Knowledge Park, and early 2018 saw the launch of our Al Dhafra region campus.
Students and faculty make a university what it is. My job is to harness this collective talent to further enhance the University’s reputation and to contribute to the economy and society in and beyond the United Arab Emirates. Above all, I want to ensure that your time at Abu Dhabi University is a memorable one, not only for helping you achieve your full academic potential and providing you with the skills and qualifications for productive careers, but also for supporting your personal growth as a well-rounded and productive citizen.
I look forward to welcoming you to Abu Dhabi University.
Professor Waqar Ahmad FAcSS PhD BA
Chancellor, Abu Dhabi University
Governance
Abu Dhabi University’s governance follows transparent processes in line with international standards. The structure consists of the Board of Regents, Board of Directors, and associated standing committees. The boards and committees work with Abu Dhabi University’s management team to support the achievement of the University’s strategic vision and mission.
Board of Regents
Abu Dhabi University is privileged to have a number of the UAE’s prominent business leaders on our Board of Regents. Although the Board is honorary, it plays a key role in providing feedback on all strategic matters related to the sustainability of the University. Areas of consultation include the financial, political, and overall policy direction of the University.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors is the primary decision-making body of Abu Dhabi University. It meets a minimum of four times per year to review everything from strategic and operational plans to policies, budgets, and special initiatives.
Standing Committees
There are a number of standing committees that are responsible for overseeing several areas relevant to the sustainable management of the University. Members of these committees are drawn from the Board of Directors and additional members with special skill sets may be invited to serve at the discretion of the Board of Directors. All of these committees report back to the Board of Directors.
Academic Affairs Committee
The Academic Affairs Committee (AAC) provides direction on all aspects of academic strategy relating to teaching, learning, and research. It also provides feedback on academic planning to ensure quality standards on all aspects of academic development are upheld.
Strategic Planning Committee
The Strategic Planning Committee (SPC) oversees the development of the University’s strategic plan and tracks all strategic initiatives. The SPC ensures the University stays on course in terms of implementation of the strategic plan and accurate progress reporting.
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee (AC) is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the internal audit process for the University, including the development of the annual audit plan. Audit reports are submitted to the Board of Directors on a regular basis.
Finance Committee
The Finance Committee (FC) oversees all aspects related to the financial management of the University including the budget process, financial aspects of strategic initiatives, advice on fundraising, and direction on financial implications of policies and plans.
Human Resources and Compensation Committee
The Human Resources and Compensation Committee (HRCC) is responsible for all policies and strategic planning related to the growth and development of human capital within the University. This includes manpower planning, compensation and reward strategies, succession planning and processes for recruitment, as well as overseeing the implementation of the approved Human Resources strategy.