Abu Dhabi University And DAMAC Group Join Forces To Enhance Academic And Professional Excellence

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) and DAMAC Group have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance academic excellence, professional growth, and applied research opportunities. This partnership aims to provide students with practical insights into DAMAC's diverse operations, including property development, hospitality, retail, logistics, and capital markets. It also promotes joint research initiatives and knowledge-sharing between both institutions.

The collaboration aligns with ADU’s commitment to equipping students with practical skills and real-world experience that prepare them to succeed in today’s dynamic business environment. Dr. Anas Najdawi, Dubai Campus Director and Associate Professor of Management Information Systems at Abu Dhabi University, said, "At ADU, we are committed to equipping our students with the tools and experiences they need to succeed in sectors such as real estate, hospitality, and digital business. This partnership with DAMAC Group creates a transformative opportunity by combining ADU’s academic expertise with practical industry engagement. It offers professionals opportunities to enhance their knowledge and advance their careers while providing a platform for students to gain the skills and insights needed to excel in today’s professional landscape, preparing the next generation of leaders to make meaningful contributions across the UAE and beyond."

Through this collaboration, ADU students will gain access to internships and mentorship opportunities. These experiences will provide them with practical exposure to industry settings and real-world applications of their academic learning. Students will also engage in research projects and capstone initiatives, gaining hands-on experience that complements their studies.

Meanwhile, DAMAC employees will benefit from scholarships, specialised training, and professional development programmes at ADU’s Dubai campus. Faculty members and students will have the chance to contribute to applied research initiatives. This further strengthens the collaboration between academia and industry.

This partnership reinforces ADU’s role as a hub for industry-aligned learning, applied research, and workforce development. M.P. John, Chief Human Capital Officer at DAMAC, stated that the MoU underscores DAMAC's ongoing efforts to support academic institutions in shaping the workforce of the future while fostering a culture of innovation.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Anas Najdawi from ADU and Shirin Sehgal from DAMAC during a ceremony at ADU’s Dubai campus. Shirin Sehgal commented on the collaboration: "This collaboration with Abu Dhabi University reflects DAMAC’s commitment to empowering the next generation through education and professional development."

By merging ADU's academic expertise with DAMAC's industry experience, pathways are created for students and employees alike. These pathways prepare them to excel in their careers while contributing positively to the UAE’s knowledge economy.

With inputs from WAM