Sustainable Development Goal 17 (SDG 17) underscores the importance of global partnerships to achieve all the other SDGs. In Dubai, a diverse and rapidly evolving city, fostering partnerships and collaborations is essential for addressing complex global challenges and achieving sustainable development.
Partnership for the Goals in Dubai:
Dubai recognizes that achieving its sustainable development objectives requires cooperation at multiple levels, including partnerships between government agencies, businesses, civil society organizations, and educational institutions. The city actively engages in international collaborations and seeks to leverage expertise and resources to drive progress.
CUD’s Commitment to SDG 17:
The Canadian University Dubai (CUD) is committed to promoting partnerships for sustainable development within its campus and in the broader Dubai community. Here’s how CUD deals with SDG 17:
Academic and Research Collaborations:
International Partnerships: CUD collaborates with universities and institutions worldwide to foster academic exchanges, joint research projects, and knowledge-sharing, promoting global understanding and cooperation.
Industry Partnerships: The university engages with local and international businesses and industries to provide students with practical experiences through internships, projects, and employment opportunities.
Community Engagement:
NGO Collaborations: CUD partners with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and community groups to support social initiatives, environmental conservation, and humanitarian causes.
Public Lectures and Workshops: The university hosts public lectures, seminars, and workshops in collaboration with experts, policymakers, and community leaders to address pressing issues and engage the public in meaningful dialogues.
Sustainability Initiatives:
Sustainable Development Forums: CUD may organize forums and conferences that bring together experts, government officials, and stakeholders to discuss and develop strategies for achieving sustainable development goals.
Youth Engagement: The university actively involves its students in sustainability and partnership-building initiatives, fostering a sense of responsibility and global citizenship.
Advocacy and Policy Dialogue:
Policy Advocacy: CUD may advocate for policies and initiatives that align with sustainable development goals, engaging with local and national authorities to influence positive change.
Stakeholder Engagement: The university actively seeks input from various stakeholders, including students, faculty, staff, and the wider community, to inform its sustainability strategies and initiatives.
Through these partnerships and collaborations, CUD contributes to Dubai’s commitment to achieving sustainable development goals by harnessing collective efforts, knowledge, and resources. The university plays a role in fostering a culture of cooperation and innovation, ensuring that Dubai continues to progress towards a sustainable and prosperous future while addressing global challenges.
Canadian University Dubai retains #1 QS ranking for third consecutive year
Institution also remains Dubai’s top university in Times Higher Education Impact Rankings
August 17th, 2023, Dubai, UAE: Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has been named the number one ranked higher education institution in Dubai for the third consecutive year in the recent QS World University Rankings for 2024. The institution also remains Dubai’s top university according to the Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings for 2023. Alongside the number one position in two of the world’s most renowned university rankings, CUD also retains its prestigious five-star status in the QS rating system, reflecting the institution’s excellence in broader metrics such as campus facilities, graduate employability, and social responsibility.
Maintaining the top position in the 2024 listing means that CUD has been recognized as Dubai’s number one university every year since it first entered the QS rankings system in 2022. This year, the institution made notable advancements in the diversity metrics, climbing to a global ranking of number four for international faculty ratio, and number five for international student ratio. In addition, the recent THE Impact Rankings position CUD as number one in Dubai and number three in the UAE for Quality Education.
Globally recognized among the most respected university rankings, QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) was the first worldwide system to have received International Ranking Expert Group approval. The 2024 listing marks the 20th edition of the QS World University Rankings and includes 1,500 institutions across 104 locations. This year’s assessment also introduced three new metrics relating to sustainability, employment outcomes, and international research networks.
Speaking about the recent ranking, University Chancellor, Mr. Buti Saeed Al Ghandi, said, “We are honoured to be recognized once again as the top-ranked university in Dubai. As a world-renowned education destination, this city offers an abundance of international study options, so we are extremely proud to uphold the first-class reputation of Canadian higher education with another number one position. This achievement acknowledges the outstanding dedication of our faculty and staff and the tremendous talent of our students and graduates in helping to build our global reputation for academic excellence set in an inspiring campus community.”
In recognition of the university’s contribution to the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), CUD has also topped the listing of Dubai-based institutions in the THE Impact Rankings for 2023. It is the second year in a row that CUD has been named as the number one university in the ranking, which assesses universities’ contribution to all 17 SDGs across the core activities of teaching, research, outreach, and stewardship. According to THE, a record 1,705 universities from 115 locations were assessed this year.
CUD President and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Karim Chelli, remarked, “As we prepare the next generation of global citizens for the leadership challenges that lie ahead, we recognize our role in setting the standards for sustainable development practices. The top THE ranking is a testament to our academic and outreach endeavours, which create a positive impact in our local community, while also contributing to global sustainability goals.”
CUD Ranks #24 in the Arab Region & Receives 5 Stars | QS Arab Region University Rankings
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From left to right: Dr. Mohammed Djeddi, Vice President of Academic Affairs, CUD; Prof Dr Amr Ezzat Salam, the Secretary General at the Association of Arab Universities; Prof. Karim Chelli, President & Vice-Chancellor, CUD; Mr Jason Newman, the COO (Chief Commercial Officer) QS; Dr. John Newark, Executive Vice President, CUD.
The ‘Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Arab Region University Rankings of 2023, World University Rankings Award’ was celebrated onboard the Queen Elizabeth 2, Dubai, UAE on October 19, 2022. Canadian University Dubai (CUD) was honoured to host this event for the Arab Region, under the patronage of QS.
CUD Ranks #24 in the Arab Region & Receives 5 Stars

(QS Arab Region University Rankings of 2023)
Representing CUD, Prof. Karim Chelli (President & Vice-Chancellor) together with Dr. John Newark (Executive Vice President) and Dr. Mohammed Djeddi, (Vice President of Academic Affairs) received the awards.
“QS ranking demonstrates our collective commitment to the region’s educational system, connecting the Arab region with the rest of the world.” Prof. Karim Chelli (President & Vice-Chancellor, CUD).
This momentous and spectacular event was attended by dignitaries and distinguished guests, showcasing 200 universities from across 18 Arab league countries – cherished with esteemed institutions and remarkable pioneering champions who are inspiring minds and transforming lives for the better.
Dr. John Newark (Executive Vice President, CUD) expressed his insights into higher education. “University and institution learning programs are designed to develop and shape the youth for the future – to equip, provide and prepare them holistically, to enter the world with bold ambitions, to become specialists in their area of expertise, and make meaningful contributions to society.
Education is a vital cornerstone within our developing world, for the advancement of our societies. Universities work to provide an inclusive and enriching student experience, with academia excellence, a vibrant student life, and world-class faculty – demonstrating a commitment to higher education – the bridge to preparing generations of learners to lead industries across the globe.
Education has evolved substantially in this part of the world. The spirit of higher educational experiences in the Arab Region cultivates and promotes perspectives in learning, research, and application – grounded in appreciation and respect for diverse cultures and values.
This is only the beginning of the advancement of higher learning within the Arab Region and globally. I encourage and urge us all to continue to innovate and deliver initiatives that will help to develop an esteemed level of higher education – together leaving a global footprint.”
It was an honour for CUD to host this event for the Arab Region, in collaboration with the patronage of Quacquarelli Symonds (QS).
Canadian University Dubai earns accreditation from KSA Ministry of Education

Dubai, UAE: Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has secured formal accreditation for its degree programs from the Ministry of Education in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, building on its existing portfolio of international academic credentials.
The accreditation affirms that CUD programs align with the Ministry’s standards and requirements for academic equivalency. As an accredited institution, students graduating from any bachelor’s or master’s degree program at CUD will be able to have their degrees recognized in the Kingdom. This recognition will be hugely beneficial for fresh graduates entering the KSA job market as well as working professionals looking to advance their career in their home nation.
Speaking about the achievement, CUD Chancellor, Mr. Buti Saeed Al Ghandi, said “It is a privilege for the University to achieve this recognition at a time when the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is accelerating strategic initiatives to diversify its economy as it builds towards Vision 2030. We thank the Ministry for its support in this process and look forward to adding value to its vision, by contributing to the education and professional development of Saudi nationals.”
CUD President and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Karim Chelli, remarked, “This is an important milestone in the University’s agenda to broaden our international collaborations and to help promote growth in the regional knowledge economy. With a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven programs and practices, CUD is dedicated to making a significant contribution towards building the skills and professional capacity to match the region’s increasingly diverse and dynamic jobs market.”
CUD alumna, Marwa Al Rammal, who graduated from the University with a BBA in Accounting and Finance and an MBA in Finance commented, “As a Saudi national, I am very proud to hear about the University’s accreditation from the Ministry of Education. It is a great achievement and a wonderful opportunity for Saudi students and graduates from CUD to pursue their careers at home in KSA.”
The accreditation from the KSA Ministry of Education applies to each of the 40+ degree concentrations offered at CUD and builds on the University’s extensive portfolio of regional and global collaborations. In addition to its suit of formal transfer agreements with universities in Canada, CUD has academic partnerships with institutions across five continents, allowing student to gain an international academic experience while earning a UAE, and now also KSA, Ministry accredited degree.
Canadian University Dubai dominates competition, remains #1 ranked university in Dubai for second year in a row

Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has maintained its #1 rank in Dubai and remains in the top 2 per cent of global universities according to the recent QS University Rankings for 2023.
CUD is now positioned among the leading 541-550 universities globally, an unprecedented rise of over 100 spots from its 601-650 last year. These rankings are based on a range of measures, including academic and employer reputation, faculty-student ratio, academic citations, and internationalization. As per the 2023 rankings, CUD has the #7 rank in the world for international students and #8 for faculty, placing CUD in the league of world-class institutions.
Speaking about the recognition, University Chancellor, Buti Saeed Al Ghandi, said, “As a young university, we are humbled to be recognised among the most renowned and prestigious institutions across the globe. Our ambition as an organisation reflects that of both Canada and the UAE – to provide the best opportunities for future generations to support the advancement of society through economic prosperity and tolerant coexistence. The QS recognition of our academic excellence and inclusive campus community is a proud achievement for us.”
CUD President and Vice Chancellor, Prof. Karim Chelli, added, “We are honoured to receive these accolades. They are a testament to how far this university has come in its short history. To be recognised among the leading global institutions reflects our progressive approach to quality-driven education, applying world-class teaching and learning methods while preparing students for the careers of the future with core skills like innovation and entrepreneurship.
“We are also delighted with our commitment to the wider university experience. Higher education is the launchpad for the next generation and our goal is to prepare young people for their future, personally and professionally, as well as academically. This ranking demonstrates our commitment to advancing the region’s education system on the global stage and to building more bridges between Canada and the UAE.”
As the first global system to have received International Ranking Expert Group approval, the QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) ranking is recognised among the most respected university rankings in the world. CUD first entered the world ranking system for the 2022 edition and has already climbed significantly in the second year.
CUD joins the International Association of Universities

Thursday, October 7, 2021: Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has joined the International Association of Universities (IAU), further demonstrating our commitment to growing our global network of institutional partners and facilitating our education and applied research development to enhance our academic and cultural exchanges.
Founded in 1950, under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the IAU is the leading global association of higher education institutions and organizations from around the world. As an independent, bilingual (English and French), non-governmental, membership organization, the IAU gathers more than 640 Members (institutions, organizations, affiliates and associates) from over 120 countries to identify, reflect, and act on common priorities.
As a respected global voice, the vision of the IAU is to promote collaboration among its members by articulating the fundamental values and principles that underpin the pursuit, dissemination, and application of knowledge. Central to these values and principles is the importance of international collaboration, tolerance, equity, and academic diversity.
The Association advocates for higher education policies and practices that respect diverse perspectives and promote social responsibility. Acting as a forum for sharing and joint action, the IAU encourages innovation, mutual learning, and cooperation amongst institutions.
CUD’s affiliation showcases the importance of developing mutually-beneficial global partnerships that strengthen our role in the international higher education community and contribute to the advancement of research and knowledge.
Canadian University Dubai becomes academic partner with Autodesk

Thursday, August 19, 2021: Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has become an academic partner with Autodesk, a global leader in design and make technology. The agreement was signed and facilitated by leading training centre, Omniplan, and qualifies CUD to teach courses on Autodesk programs, including but not limited to: AutoCAD, 3D Max, and Revit.
This partnership will enable students to receive accredited certificates through their accounts on the Autodesk website by registering their relevant university subjects such as computer-aided design (CAD), 3dsMax, or building information modelling (BIM).
For over four decades Autodesk has worked to transform how things are made. Today, their solutions span countless industries, empowering innovators everywhere to combine technologies in new ways, unleash talent, and unlock insights to make the new possible.
Speaking to this accomplishment, Dr.Hamoud Dekkiche, Acting Dean, Faculty of Architecture & Interior Design, Canadian University Dubai, said: “Canadian University Dubai is dedicated to providing students with the tools necessary to respond to the current trends and future demands of employers. Our partnership with Autodesk will complement our Bachelor of Architecture, Bachelor of Science in Architectural Studies, and Bachelor of Science in Interior Design programs by equipping future graduates with the tools necessary to improve their skills in areas such as design collaboration and building coordination.”
Dr. RaEd K. QaQish, Associate Professor, Faculty of Architecture & Interior Design, Canadian University Dubai, added: “By becoming an Authorized Academic Partner with Autodesk, we are reaffirming our commitment to advance rapidly in our responsibilities towards the local and international community by means of preparing students to take action. CUD embraces the next generation by empowering and inspiring them, facilitating their abilities and skills, preparing them for the competitive labour market, and producing stronger ties between the professional industries and the future of our students.”
The BSc in Architectural Studies at CUD presents students with the opportunity to specialize in one of two technical industry-relevant disciplines, BIM and sustainable design. These programs provide them with the relevant foundations to pursue the licensure required to practice as a professional architect.
The Bachelor of Architecture and the BSc in Interior design programs blend the fundamentals of design and technology with business and entrepreneurship through behavioural, technological, sustainable, and aesthetic exploration. The Bachelor of Architecture provides a thorough understanding of the functional areas of architecture, including the design tools, methodologies, and philosophies associated with decision-making and effective presentation processes, while the BSc in Interior Design emphasizes creativity and problem solving, building professional competencies such as adaptability, rationality, and accountability in design thinking.
All programs are currently open for applications for the Fall 2021 semester.
Canadian University Dubai joins PRME

Monday, June 14, 2021: Canadian University Dubai (CUD) is pleased to announce our membership to PRME (Principles for Responsible Management Education), a world-wide initiative of the United Nations Global Compact to promote responsible and sustainable management education.
CUD now joins 850 leading business and management schools across 95 countries around the world in their commitment to build a more sustainable future by supporting the achievement of PRME’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and implementing the following Six Principles:
1. Purpose: Develop the capabilities of students to be future generators of sustainable value for business and society at large, working towards an inclusive and sustainable global economy.
2. Values: Incorporate into our academic activities, curricula, and organizational practices the values of global social responsibility as portrayed in international initiatives such as the United Nations Global Compact.
3. Method: Create educational frameworks, materials, processes, and environments to enable effective learning experiences for responsible leadership.
4. Research: Engage in conceptual and empirical research that advances our understanding about the role, dynamics, and impact of corporations in the creation of sustainable social, environmental, and economic value.
5. Partnership: Interact with managers of business corporations to extend knowledge of their challenges in meeting social and environmental responsibilities, and to explore jointly effective approaches to meeting these challenges.
6. Dialogue: Facilitate, support dialog, and debate, among educators, students, business, government, consumers, media, civil society organizations, other interested groups, and stakeholders on critical issues related to global social responsibility and sustainability.
In addition, PRME functions as a convener of networks whereby signatories are encouraged to take part (PRME Champions, PRME Working Groups, and PRME Chapters) and expand their engagement with peers and partners, with the purpose of scaling up accomplishments in the areas of sustainability and responsible management education. CUD is among 11 universities in the United Arab Emirates to participate.
As a global learning community of thought leaders, academics, businesses, students, and leadership experts, PRME places great emphasis on engaging students and youth. As leaders of tomorrow, their role is pivotal in tackling the development challenges of the 21st century.
PRME Global Students (PGS) was developed as part of the PRME network, a student-run initiative designed to co-create a space for fruitful and creative collaboration, collective reflection, and joyful interactions between and beyond student organizations in the realm of sustainable development. PGS aims to empower and create value for student organizations worldwide by leveraging their interests while facilitating connections to each other and further players in a fast-paced.
For more information, please visit: UNPRME .
Canadian University Dubai ranks in top 2% of universities worldwide

QS World University Rankings 2022 position CUD among leading 601-650 global institutions
Sunday, June 20, 2021, Dubai, UAE: Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has been ranked amongst the top 601-650 universities in the world by the QS World University Rankings 2022. The unprecedented achievement positions the University among the top 2% of institutions for higher education worldwide as it enters the internationally renowned ranking system for the first time in its history.
CUD was among an elite group of universities across the globe to qualify for assessment under the 2022 ranking process. Evaluated against a range of measures, including research citations, reputation, teaching, employability of its graduates, and internationalization, the University was also placed among the top 4 universities in the United Arab Emirates.
As the first global system to have received International Ranking Expert Group approval, the QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) ranking is recognized among the most respected university rankings in the world. Reflecting its diverse student and academic community, CUD also placed among the top 10 globally for international students and international faculty, achieving 6th and 7th positions respectively.
Accepting the accolade on behalf of the University, CUD President and Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Karim Chelli, said, “It is a great honour to be recognized by an international system like QS, which hold such immense esteem in global higher education. Our rankings are a testament to the dedication of the entire university community to delivering the best in Canadian education and pushing the boundaries of innovation and creativity with research that contributes to our society, both locally and globally.”
University Chancellor, Mr. Buti Saeed Al Ghandi remarked, “Our mission as a University is to contribute to the development of the nation by educating the youth – our leaders of tomorrow. With this momentous achievement, we reaffirm our commitment to working together with our partners and the UAE education authorities to help shape the future of generations to come.”
Acknowledging the significance of the achievement, His Excellency Hussain bin Ibrahim Al Hammadi, Cabinet Member and Minister of Education, extended his congratulations to the University and its leadership.
Among several notable achievements that helped CUD secure the ranking is a substantial increase in SCOPUS registered publications and citations, demonstrating the University’s contribution to the global research community. The institution has also secured further accreditations from regional, national, and international professional bodies, including: Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), Chartered Financial Analyst Institute (CFA), Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), International Advertising Association (IAA), Public Relations Association of America (PRSA), Association of Arab Universities (AArU), Environmental Careers Organization of Canada (ECO Canada), and the Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), reflecting the industry-relevance of the academic programs on offer and the quality of education provided.
Canadian University Dubai joins the Association of Arab Universities (AArU)

Wednesday, May 19, 2021: Canadian University Dubai is proud to join the Association of Arab Universities (AArU) as active member, that works to support and connect institutions for higher learning in the Arab world, as well as enhance cooperation among them. The non-governmental organization includes 280 Arab universities at present, 12 of which are located in the United Arab Emirates. AArU was established in 1964 upon a resolution issued by the Arab League.
BSc in Environmental Health Management Accredited* by ECO Canada

Thursday, June 3, 2021: Canadian University Dubai (CUD) is pleased to announce that the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health Management program has been awarded Accreditation* Status from ECO Canada.
ECO Canada acts as a steward for the Canadian environmental workforce across all industries and aims to promote and drive responsible, sustainable economic growth while ensuring that environmental care is a priority. Their International Post-Secondary Environmental Program Accreditation recognizes programs for their commitment to high-quality education, accountability, and public trust.
After rigorous assessment, the Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health Management program at CUD has proven to meet an international standard of excellence in environmental practice and aligns with the growing labour market needs of the environmental workforce worldwide. The accreditation will apply to graduating, current and prospective students of this program, effective from April 29, 2021.
CUD’s BSc in Environmental Health Management covers a wide variety of disciplines and prepares students for the technical and professional demands of careers in the field of Environment, Human Health, Safety, Healthcare Institutions and Research. Students are actively involved within their communities through the planning and execution of environmental and health projects, and learn methods for analyzing, evaluating, and controlling environmental health issues.
To learn more about this program accreditation, please visit the ECO Canada website .
*Interim Accreditation Status
QS University Rankings 2022
Canadian University Dubai is proud to be ranked in the top 2% worldwide (601 – 650) and #1 in Dubai as per the QS University Rankings 2022!



