SHARJAH, UAE — The American University of Sharjah (AUS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Zayed Education Foundation, opening new opportunities for graduate scholarships, research collaboration, innovation projects and leadership development for students and academics across the UAE.
The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation between the two institutions in areas including scholarship funding, research clusters, endowed research chairs, postdoctoral fellowships, PhD grants, entrepreneurship initiatives, professional development programs and community engagement activities.
A key outcome of the partnership is AUS’s inclusion in the Ruwwad Zayed Program, a merit-based scholarship initiative that supports high-achieving Emirati and Arab students residing in the UAE who are pursuing master’s degrees in fields considered strategic for the region’s future development.
The program offers full academic funding alongside leadership training, mentorship and support services designed to help students achieve academic success and develop the skills required for future leadership roles.
Currently, eligible AUS programs under the Ruwwad Zayed Program include:
- Master of Arts in International Studies
- Master of Urban Planning
- Master of Science in Machine Learning
- Master of Science in Economics and Policy
Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, said the agreement reflects a shared commitment to creating meaningful educational opportunities that contribute to national development.
“By linking scholarship support with research, innovation and leadership development, we are helping talented students pursue advanced studies, contribute to priority sectors and develop the capabilities needed to make a positive impact on society,” he said.
Representatives of the Zayed Education Foundation described the partnership as aligned with the UAE’s long-term vision of investing in human capital and empowering future generations with the knowledge, values and global outlook required to lead sustainable growth and prosperity.
Expanding Opportunities Beyond Scholarships
Beyond financial support, the partnership aims to strengthen collaboration in research and innovation. The institutions will explore opportunities for joint research initiatives, academic fellowships and projects that address emerging regional and global challenges.
The agreement also supports entrepreneurship and leadership development programs, reinforcing efforts to prepare students for rapidly evolving economic and technological environments.
The collaboration reflects a broader trend in UAE higher education, where universities, foundations and public-sector entities are increasingly working together to build research capacity, support graduate education and nurture future-ready talent.
Founded in 1997 by Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the American University of Sharjah has established itself as one of the region’s leading higher education institutions.
Today, under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, AUS continues to expand its global academic footprint through research excellence, international partnerships and innovative academic programs.
According to the 2026 QS rankings, AUS is ranked among the top three percent of universities in the Arab region and among the top 18 percent of ranked universities worldwide.
The university offers:
- 33 undergraduate majors
- 48 minors
- 21 master’s programs
- 8 PhD programs
These programs are delivered through four academic units: the College of Architecture, Art and Design, the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Engineering, and the School of Business Administration.
Home to students representing more than 100 nationalities, AUS is recognized for its multicultural learning environment, internationally accredited programs and strong emphasis on research, innovation and industry engagement.
The Zayed Education Foundation was established with the support and oversight of the National Projects Office of the Presidential Court to invest in and connect purpose-driven young leaders from the UAE, the Arab world and beyond.
Inspired by the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the foundation promotes leadership, education, research and collaboration initiatives that combine regional values with innovation and global engagement.
Through its programs, the foundation aims to empower 100,000 young people by 2035, equipping them with the skills, integrity and sense of purpose needed to contribute to society and drive sustainable development.
More information about the Ruwwad Zayed Program is available at Ruwwad Zayed Program.
