About us

About the university

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD), established in 2006 through a visionary partnership between Sorbonne University in Paris and the Government of Abu Dhabi, stands as a bridge between civilizations.

Under its iconic dome on Reem Island, SUAD blends French academic tradition with Emirati ambition, offering world-class programs from bachelor’s to doctorate levels across the humanities, sciences, and emerging fields such as sustainability and artificial intelligence.

Today, with a vibrant community of 1,800 students from 81 nationalities, SUAD is both a multidisciplinary research lighthouse for the region and a hub where students are empowered to become critical thinkers and responsible leaders. Embodying excellence, diversity, and innovation, SUAD shapes future generations and fosters dialogue at the crossroads of cultures.

History & Background

Schools

School of Arts and Humanities

The School of Arts and Humanities fosters critical thinking and decision-making, linguistic and communication skills, and cultural understanding through a broad range of disciplines—from history, philosophy, and languages to urban planning and museum studies. Our programs combine academic depth with practical relevance, preparing students to engage with today’s global challenges through a humanistic lens. Graduates are equipped for diverse careers in public policy, international organizations, education, cultural institutions, urban development, and the creative industries, as well as for leadership roles in both the public and private sectors.

School of Data, Science and Engineering

In a world driven by digital and responsible innovation, the School of Data, Science and Engineering offers a range of programmes designed to meet the increasing demand for advanced expertise in data science, technology, and engineering. Covering areas from physics and AI to records management, these programmes integrate interdisciplinarity, rigorous scientific inquiry, and experiential learning. Join us to become an architect of the quantum and digital future.

School of Law, Economics and Business

At the crossroads of global challenges and local opportunities, the School of Law, Economics and Business offers a multidisciplinary approach to understanding and shaping the world. Through its diverse departments and wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, the school equips students with the analytical, legal, (communication,) and managerial skills needed to lead in today’s complex environment. Discover our academic community, latest research, impactful projects, and how we align with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Continuing Education Center

The Continuing Education Center (CEC) provides niche, high quality and lifelong learning programmes to empower working professionals and advance their professional goals and career prospects. Additionally, the CEC is committed to supporting the sustainable economic development of the UAE by offering programmes and learning opportunities aligned with the evolving skill demands of the workforce. Alumni and corporate participants can benefit from preferential rates—click here (add link) for more information.

Accreditation

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi operates under the administration of the Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) and the academic leadership of Sorbonne Université in collaboration with Université Paris Cité.

The degrees are awarded by Sorbonne Université and Université Paris Cité. All SUAD programmes are evaluated by the Higher Council for the Evaluation of Research and Higher Education (HCERES) and accredited by the French Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation. Furthermore, all programmes are accredited by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA). These degrees are recognised worldwide.

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