AUS signs MoU with Zayed Education Foundation to support scholarships and research opportunities

AUS joins the Ruwwad Zayed Program as the agreement opens new pathways for graduate study and academic collaboration

Sharjah, UAE, 8 June 2026 — American University of Sharjah (AUS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Zayed Education Foundation, creating a formal basis for joint initiatives that expand opportunities for students, faculty and the wider community.

Under the agreement, the two institutions will explore cooperation on a scholarship program for AUS students, research clusters, endowed research chairs, postdoctoral fellowships, PhD grants, innovation and entrepreneurship projects, leadership development, professional growth and community engagement.

AUS is now included among the participating universities under the Ruwwad Zayed Program, a merit-based university scholarship for high-potential Emirati and Arab youth based in the UAE pursuing master's degrees in priority fields for the region. The program provides full academic funding, tailored leadership development and comprehensive support services designed to strengthen scholars' academic, personal and professional growth. AUS programs currently listed under Ruwwad Zayed include the Master of Arts in International Studies, Master of Urban Planning, Master of Science in Machine Learning and Master of Science in Economics and Policy.

"This MoU reflects the kind of purposeful partnership that creates lasting value for students, universities and the wider UAE community," said Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS. "Our collaboration with Zayed Education Foundation brings together access, academic excellence and national impact. By linking scholarship support with research, innovation and leadership development, we are helping create pathways for talented students to pursue advanced study, contribute to priority fields and develop the skills needed to serve society with purpose. AUS is proud to be listed under the Ruwwad Zayed Program and to support an initiative that invests in the next generation of leaders, innovators and changemakers."

A Zayed Education Foundation spokesperson said: "We are pleased to formalise our partnership with American University of Sharjah, reflecting our shared commitment to supporting the UAE's vision of investing in human capital as a cornerstone of sustainable development. The Ruwwad Zayed program is a flagship initiative that brings this partnership to life, empowering talented youth with the knowledge, values and global perspective needed to lead with purpose. Through this collaboration, we aim to strengthen leadership and foster a generation capable of driving inclusive growth and prosperity."

The partnership reflects AUS' continued commitment to building strategic collaborations that expand opportunities for students and faculty, strengthen research and innovation ecosystems and connect academic excellence with real-world impact. Through its partnerships with government entities, foundations, industry and community organizations, AUS continues to create new pathways for scholarships, research funding, entrepreneurship, professional development and student success, reinforcing its role as a leading institution contributing to the UAE's knowledge economy and future-ready talent agenda.