American University of Sharjah (AUS) alumnus Saud Al Nowais who is currently the Commercial and Trade Attaché in the UAE Embassy in Washington DC, returned to campus recently to meet with students from the Department of International Studies and share with them his views on a number of topic including politics in Washington DC, work at the UAE embassy, as well as trade links and venture capital opportunities.

Al Nowais, who graduated with a BA in International Studies from AUS in 2006, was associated with the Executive Affairs Department in Abu Dhabi prior to joining the UAE embassy in Washington DC. He was part of the team that was instrumental in the completion of the 123 Agreement with the United States that is now regarded as the international gold standard for other countries seeking the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Pertaining to his work at the embassy in Washington DC, Al Nowais briefed the students about the diplomatic mission, the work of the Congressional Affairs Office, as well as on projects that he and his office are currently involved in.

He concluded his remarks by affirming the need for respect and tolerance and advised the students to enjoy their undergraduate years but to also step outside of their comfort zones.

Dr. Björn Kjerfve, AUS Chancellor, and Dr. Mahmoud Anabtawi, the Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, also met with Al Nowais and briefed him about the progress of the university and the institution's future plans. During the meeting, alumnus Al Nowais reiterated his commitment to give back to the College of Arts and Sciences and to AUS.