Canadian University Dubai — Participation in Government Policy Making
Our Commitment
Canadian University Dubai actively contributes to government policy making at the local, national, and regional levels. Through formal advisory board memberships, government-funded research initiatives, and high-level policy dialogues, the University provides evidence-based expertise to government entities, helping to shape public policy in the UAE and the wider MENA region.
Advisory Roles in Government Policy
CUD faculty and leadership serve on boards and committees that directly influence government policy and curriculum alignment.
| Advisory Body | Government Partner | Contribution to Policy |
|---|---|---|
| School of Management Advisory Board | UAE Ministry of Economy | The Board includes a representative from the Ministry, providing direct federal input into CUD's MBA curriculum and ensuring that business education aligns with national economic policy and workforce strategies. |
Government-Funded Research for Policy
CUD conducts research funded by government entities that directly informs public policy and urban development strategies.
- Dubai Future Foundation (DFF) RDI Grants: In March 2025, the DFF announced funding for 24 research projects across 13 universities, including several led by CUD. These grants prioritize research in cognitive cities, health and life sciences, and AI, directly contributing to Dubai’s strategic goal of becoming one of the world’s most future-ready cities.
- CUD Faculty Leading the Way: CUD professors noted that the "Dubai RDI programme exemplifies Dubai’s commitment to advancing research… We are eager to contribute to the city’s research ecosystem," highlighting their active role in solving local government challenges.
Hosting High-Level Policy Dialogues
CUD convenes policymakers, government officials, and international experts to discuss and shape policy on critical global issues.
| Policy Dialogue | Date | Government Participants | Policy Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Global Health Network (TGHN) MENA Hub Launch | Oct 2024 | WHO-EMRO, CDC MENA, policymakers from across the region | Hosted at CUD, this event brought together leading experts and policymakers to chart a path for health research collaboration and policy development across the MENA region. |
| Climate Ambassadors Programme | Oct 2023 | UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment | CUD students participated in this federal program linked to COP28, engaging in policy discussions and climate action initiatives. |
| Climate Summit 2025 | June 2025 | UAE government representatives, global speakers | Hosted under royal patronage, this summit brought policymakers together to discuss climate policy and decarbonization ahead of COP30. |
Alignment with National and Global Goals
These activities align with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions), particularly UN Target 16.6 (Develop effective, accountable and transparent institutions at all levels). By providing expert advice, conducting policy-relevant research, and hosting dialogues with government ministries, CUD actively participates in government policy making to improve society and governance.