UAE unveils award to honour achievements in higher education sector

The UAE has unveiled an award to honour exemplary contributions of institutions and individuals in the higher education sector.

Making the announcement on Tuesday, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research said the award falls into four main categories - Leadership, Readiness, Pioneers and National Impact.

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chairman of the Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council, the award will encourage initiatives that support the UAE's national priorities and create sustainable impact. 

It will also "foster a culture of excellence and innovation", highlighted Sheikh Abdullah. 

Under the patronage of H.H Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed . . Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research launches the UAE Award for Higher Education pic.twitter.com/BLuhTWYbAZ

— UAEGOV (@UAEmediaoffice) July 14, 2026

What the categories mean

• 'Leadership' will honour leading universities, higher education and vocational education institutions, as well as the sector's outstanding entrepreneurs
• 'Readiness' will be awarded to transformative higher education projects
• 'Pioneers' will recognise higher education pioneers 
• 'National Impact' will look into impactful higher education partners and outstanding international universities.