American University of Sharjah (AUS) is among some of the country’s leading organizations to have been honored at the 2019 UAE Pioneers Award. The award acknowledges organizations who have made an exceptional contribution towards the UAE’S development. AUS was recognized for its support of the UAE’s science and research endeavors. The accolade comes in the same year that AUS made public its intention to become the region’s leading research institute by 2023.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced the names of the winners at a special ceremony held yesterday, November 28. Dr. Björn Kjerfve, Chancellor of AUS, received the award on behalf of the university.

AUS is among 30 select organizations to win this year’s Pride of Zayed Award, decided by public vote. Other prominent recipients of this year’s award included DP World, Emirates Airlines, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park, and Barakah Nuclear Plant.

Speaking on this prestigious recognition, Chancellor Kjerfve, said:

“We would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for this initiative and to our many well-wishers and alumni for their support.

“Since its inception, AUS has been committed to achieving excellence in the academic field. As mandated by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Sharjah, and President of AUS, the university has also actively contributed to finding solutions to the challenges facing the industrial, corporate and public sectors in the country, and wider region. This special award is acknowledgement of the role our university has played in the development of the UAE as a destination for innovation since its founding 20 years ago.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan for his guidance, leadership and unstinting support, the members of our board of trustees, our administration and staff, and especially our faculty and students without whom such recognition would not have been possible,” he said.

The award, which was founded in 2014, is highlighted and promoted on social media each year.

In May of this year, AUS announced a new research agenda, with the goal of becoming a world-class research institution in just five years. To facilitate the new agenda, seven new research entities have been established. The university’s research focus will include health sciences, materials science, marine sciences, city planning, and the impact of climate change. To find out more, visit: https://www.aus.edu/research.