EAD And UAEU Establish Strategic Research Partnership To Advance UAE Sustainability Goals

The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) have established a strategic research partnership to further the UAE’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This collaboration aims to launch a high-impact research programme that aligns with these goals, translating scientific findings into actionable policies to advance national sustainability efforts.

Through this initiative, up to 10 collaborative research projects will be supported. These projects will focus on areas such as climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, marine ecosystem health, clean water management, and environmental policy. The projects will be co-developed by a joint oversight committee that ensures alignment with national priorities.

This partnership builds on a Memorandum of Understanding signed in March 2023 with several UAE universities. It reflects a shared commitment to scientific excellence and environmental stewardship. The initiative also enhances the Abu Dhabi Environmental Research Network (ADERN), which connects universities, research centres, and institutions for collaborative scientific research.

Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary-General of EAD, stated, "This partnership with UAE University reflects our unwavering commitment to advancing evidence-based environmental policy through world-class scientific research." She emphasised the importance of collaboration between academia and government in generating new knowledge and empowering future environmental leaders.

Professor Ahmed Alraeesi, Vice Chancellor of UAEU, highlighted the university's commitment to advancing environmental sustainability through this partnership. He noted that together they will develop impactful initiatives addressing environmental challenges while raising awareness among students and the community about ecosystem preservation.

UAEU students will actively participate in the programme, receiving mentorship from EAD experts. They will gain hands-on experience in applied research, enhancing national capacity building in environmental sciences. Research outcomes will be shared through academic publications and contributions to national reporting mechanisms like the UAE SDG Report.

Long-term Collaboration

The Letter of Intent signed by both entities underscores their shared vision for long-term collaboration bridging science, policy, and public service. This joint programme marks a significant step in integrated environmental research and demonstrates Abu Dhabi’s leadership in embedding sustainability within its development agenda.

The initiative prioritises research aligned with national climate strategies and the broader SDG agenda. Experts from both organisations will collaborate closely with UAEU researchers and students to shape policies and real-world solutions for climate change response and sustainable resource management.

With inputs from WAM