Under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed, the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research introduces a four-category national initiative to benchmark academic excellence, drive industry research and elevate the country’s knowledge economy 

Abu Dhabi, Jul 14, 2026: The UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has launched a new national initiative designed to celebrate academic institutions, educators and industry partners shaping the country’s higher education and research sectors. 

The UAE Award in Higher Education honours higher education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions setting benchmarks for academic excellence, recognises transformative projects that prepare the higher education sector for future global trends and sustainable development, and rewards individual educators and researchers driving outstanding contributions to teaching, entrepreneurial culture and global competitiveness. It also aims to highlight strategic partners and international university leadership delivering cross-sector integration and impactful academic alliances. 

The initiative under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister of UAE, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council aims to accelerate the UAE’s transition towards a sustainable, knowledge-driven economy by linking academic outputs with national development priorities. The framework emphasises building alliances between academia and the private sector through expanded scholarships, work placements and industry-aligned applied research. 

“Higher education is among the key drivers of building a competitive, sustainable knowledge-based economy,” says Sheikh Abdullah. “We are committed to showcasing pioneering models that succeed in turning ideas into impact, theoretical learning into applied projects and scientific research into solutions that support the nation’s priorities and strengthen its global competitiveness.” 

Academic leaders across the country have welcomed the announcement, emphasising its role in raising standards. 

“The UAE Award in Higher Education is an important step towards enhancing the country’s reputation as a global hub for academic excellence,” says Professor Dame Heather McGregor, Provost and Vice Principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai.  

“The award spotlights outstanding universities, educators and initiatives, which further encourages institutions to consistently improve standards across all areas of teaching and research. Recognition of this kind promotes healthy competition and motivates institutions to increase investment in student success and faculty development.” 

Entries will be evaluated by an independent judging panel using a framework focused on learning outcomes, graduate employability, scalable economic impact and the integration of emerging technologies. 

The inaugural award cycle opens for institutional applications from July through September 2026. Submissions will undergo evaluation ahead of final approvals and winner announcements will be made in the fourth quarter of 2026.