Since October 2024, SAFIR hosts seven research centers focusing on seven strategic research themes[8]:
Artificial Intelligence and Digital Policy
Heritage and Material Science
Environment and Sustainable Development
Global Societies, Cultures, Cities and Arts
Applied Mathematics, Statistics and Data Science
Humanities, Languages and Education
Health and care
The research activities at SUAD are conducted in close collaboration with International research institutes and labs in France and in the Gulf region, along with local and international industrial and governmental stakeholders (Veolia[9], EAD[10], Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy [11], National archives [12]....).
In alignment with Sorbonne Université’s areas of excellence, two institutes have been established in Abu Dhabi to support innovative research on artificial intelligence and marine issues.
SCAI-AD:Sorbonne Center for Artificial Intelligence. Sorbonne Centre for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI) - Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi. SCAI Abu Dhabi was officially launched in January 2020 with 2 industrial partners Thales and TotalEnergies who inaugurated 2 research chairs in Abu Dhabi.
Several labs in France and in the region have an antenna, delegate staff at SUAD and active collaborations around research projects.
Campus and facilities
Located on Al Reem Island, SUAD's 93,000-square-metre campus [3] features modern classrooms, laboratories, auditoriums, and a library housing the largest collection of French literature in the Gulf region. The campus also includes on-site student housing [13] and a sports complex featuring a large sports hall, gymnasium, dance studio, climbing walls, a martial arts room and multiple sports courts [14]. The climbing wall which stands eight meters tall, offers 200 square meters of bouldering space equipped with a modern set of holds. In addition to these facilities, the center provides over 20 fitness and sports activities, both on and off-campus, for students, staff, and the wider community supporting physical well-being and promoting engagement within the campus environment.
Career Centre
The Career Centre at SUAD provides resources and support to students for career planning and professional development. Services include:
Workshops and training to build employability skills.
Internship and job placement opportunities through collaborations with local and international employers.
Networking events connecting students with industry professionals.
The Career Centre aims to prepare students for the workforce and facilitate their transition into professional careers. It also supports alumni with career advice and maintains strong links with various sectors in the UAE.
Student life and community engagement
SUAD promotes cultural exchange and lifelong learning through initiatives such as the Continuing Education Center (CEC) to empower working professionals and advance their professional goals and career prospects, and the Auditeurs Libres programme, enabling community members to participate in undergraduate and postgraduate-level courses without enrolling in degree programmes.
The university organizes events [15] throughout the year that reflect its commitment to cultural exchange and global dialogue. Highlights include:
· Cultural events showcasing French, Emirati, and international traditions.
· Academic conferences and workshops aligned with the university's research themes.
· Public lectures, exhibitions, and networking events that encourage collaboration between academia and industry.
Through its engagement initiatives, SUAD positions itself as a cultural hub, promoting dialogue and celebrating diversity. The university also collaborates with local and international organizations to host events that foster academic and societal growth.
Partners
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi collaborates with distinguished individuals, local and international institutions, and corporations to enhance its academic offerings, research initiatives, and student support services.
The Companions of Sorbonne Abu Dhabi Enlightenment[16]
This sponsorship programme unites individuals and organizations with strong connections to the university. Through philanthropic contributions, the programme supports research development, scholarships for postgraduate students, and university-hosted events that foster academic and cultural growth.
Friends of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Association[16]
Established in 2007 under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, and supported by the French ambassador to the UAE, this association was founded by Emirati and French residents committed to advancing the university’s mission. The association works to build strategic partnerships with renowned Emirati and French companies, emphasizing the significance of education and culture in fostering economic and societal development.
Its primary focus is on securing funding to support scholarships and facilitating the integration of graduates into professional environments.
Key facts
Established: 30 May 2006
Patronage: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi
Vice-chancellor: Prof. Nathalie Martial-Braz
Motto: A bridge between civilisations
Affiliations: Sorbonne Université and Université Paris Cité
Schools:
School of law, Economics and Business
School of Data, Science and Engineering
School of Arts and Humanities
Teaching language: French, English
System: European Credit Transfer System (ECTS)
Student diversity: over 60 Nationalities
Number of students: 1400+
Campus Size: 93,000 m²
References
^"About us". Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi. Retrieved 6 March 2024.
