Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Marks Graduation Of Its 16th Cohort With Class Of 2025
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi held its 16th graduation ceremony at the Emirates Palace Auditorium. The event was under the patronage of Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chair of the university’s Board of Trustees. The Class of 2025 included 223 graduates, with 170 earning bachelor’s degrees and 53 obtaining master’s degrees across various fields.
Emirati students made up 63.2% of the graduating class, while international students hailed from 34 different countries. This diversity highlights the university's commitment to fostering a multicultural environment and nurturing national talent. The graduates represented three schools: Law, Economics and Business; Arts and Humanities; and Data, Science and Engineering.

Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the President of the UAE, delivered an inspiring commencement address. He urged graduates to become innovators and changemakers, using their education as a gateway to professional success and a platform for global influence and sustainability. His words resonated with the audience, emphasising the importance of education in shaping future leaders.
Nicolas Niemtchinow, Ambassador of France to the UAE, also addressed the gathering. He highlighted the shared vision between the UAE and France in empowering youth through innovation. This collaboration aims to shape a future where young minds are at the forefront of progress and development.
Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, praised the graduates for their resilience. She stated that knowledge, reason, and critical thinking are essential tools for overcoming global challenges. Her remarks underscored the university's dedication to equipping students with skills necessary for tackling real-world issues.
The programmes offered by Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi reflect its multidisciplinary approach. Courses such as Economics and Management, Geography and Planning, and Mathematics with a specialisation in Data Science for Artificial Intelligence prepare students for future challenges by focusing on essential skills.
Distinguished Graduates
This year saw several notable graduates. Sara Al Raeesi earned her second master’s degree in Environmental Sustainability: Law and Policies. Ahmed Alameeri gained recognition as an author with seven published books. Maryam Alzaabi was acknowledged for her advocacy work in accessibility and inclusion, representing the university at the Inclusive Workplaces Summit.
The French Ministry of Higher Education and Research recently commended Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi for its excellence in education. This recognition reaffirms its role as a model of Franco-Emirati cooperation and a hub for academic innovation, sustainability, and cultural exchange.
The graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone in Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi's journey. The Class of 2025 joins a global alumni network poised to contribute to knowledge advancement, innovation, and community development worldwide.
With inputs from WAM