The United Arab Emirates University Made a Strong Presence at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025

The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) made a strong presence at the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, held in Abu Dhabi, leading a series of impactful activities, scientific sessions, and partnership announcements. These efforts highlighted UAEU’s growing role as a national and regional hub for environmental research, sustainability leadership, and global initiatives in environmental protection and the preservation of natural resources. UAEU’s participation reflects its strategic vision of promoting research, innovation, and sustainable development in alignment with the national and global climate agenda.

UAEU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ahmed Ali Alraeesi, affirmed: “The United Arab Emirates University is proud to participate in the IUCN Conference, showcasing our dedication to sustainability and conservation. Our collaboration with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, Al Ain Zoo, and the International Fund for Houbara Conservation reflects a united commitment to protecting biodiversity and advancing environmental research. Through our patent exhibition and innovative contributions, UAEU continues to drive forward impactful solutions to global challenges. Being ranked #1 in the UAE in the QS Sustainability Rankings underscores our leadership in creating a lasting legacy of sustainability.”

Research Initiatives and Strategic Partnerships

During the conference, UAEU unveiled several major initiatives and collaborations reaffirming its commitment to advancing applied scientific research that addresses pressing environmental challenges.

Among the key highlights was the announcement of the winners of the UAEU–Environment Agency–Abu Dhabi (EAD) Joint Student Research Grants, designed to empower young researchers to develop innovative and sustainable solutions to environmental issues, particularly those relevant to the UAE. UAEU also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Al Ain Zoo to strengthen cooperation in joint research projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), focusing on landscape management and veterinary science.

In addition, a new student research collaboration was launched with the International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC) to support biodiversity conservation and the sustainability of natural habitats. As part of this collaboration, UAEU will sponsor five student research projects in partnership with IFHC, underscoring the university’s dedication to fostering environmental stewardship and research excellence.

As part of its ongoing efforts to advance scientific research, UAEU announced the second cycle of the Postdoctoral Fellowship in Climate Action, aimed at strengthening applied research in critical areas such as renewable energy, carbon capture, and climate economics. The fellowship has been expanded to include emerging fields such as climate-resilient agriculture, water sustainability, green technologies, and nature-based solutions, reflecting UAEU’s holistic approach to addressing climate challenges.

Additionally, the newly established Desert Environment Research Center at UAEU announced a strategic partnership with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) to jointly address the most pressing environmental and sustainability issues facing desert ecosystems.

UAEU’s Sessions and Exhibitions

The university hosted an insightful panel discussion titled “Greening the Future,” which explored the vital role of universities as drivers of environmental transformation—through integrating sustainability into curricula, fostering green campuses, and promoting innovation-led climate action.

In collaboration with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), Tadweer, and Al Ain Zoo, UAEU also organized a stakeholder panel emphasizing the importance of cross-sector partnerships in supporting environmental sustainability, ecosystem restoration, and climate resilience.

At its dedicated booth within the Innovation and Patents Exhibition, UAEU showcased a range of patents and applied innovations developed by its researchers and students, reflecting the university’s commitment to turning research into real-world impact. A short film titled “From the Wisdom of the Desert to Global Innovation” was screened, celebrating UAEU’s legacy in environmental stewardship and its pioneering research contributions to climate action.

To inspire and empower young innovators, UAEU organized a 3-Minute Student Research Presentation Competition under the Plant the Emirates SDG Research Program, aimed at enhancing students’ green innovation and presentation skills. Additionally, UAEU students participated in the Youth Storytelling Session titled “From Voices to Movement – Youth, Community, Heritage & Indigenous Wisdom,” sharing their ideas and passion for sustainability alongside peers from other organizations.

As part of the launch of the strategic partnership between the UAEU Desert Environment Research Center and the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, a joint panel discussion titled “Beyond the Dunes” was held, bringing together experts to discuss the future of desert ecosystem research and conservation.

Through its active engagement at the IUCN Congress, UAEU reaffirmed its leadership in advancing sustainability science, nurturing future environmental leaders, and positioning the university as a driving force for climate resilience and innovation—locally, regionally, and globally.