SUAD's Community Engagement (CE) strategy, running through 2028, defines a clear path for future community initiatives and reflects the broader context of the university’s societal mission.
Built on the core values of collaboration, innovation, and inclusion, this strategy is designed to embed community engagement into the culture of SUAD—, thereby ensuring it inspires sustainable and impactful outcomes across Abu Dhabi, the UAE, and beyond.
The approach followed by the university is guided by four strategic pillars:
Developing and Institutionalising Community Engagement
The university aims to formalise and harmonise its Community Engagement (CE) efforts through structured governance, dedicated resources, training, and clear communication. Key initiatives include the development of policies, support for staff involvement, mechanisms for community feedback, and an impact-driven tracking framework.
Cultivating Strategic Partnerships
SUAD actively fosters mutually beneficial collaborations with government entities, the private sector, civil society organisations, and educational institutions. These partnerships are designed to enhance learning, support research, and amplify positive social impact.
Building Bridges Between SUAD and the Wider Community
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi develops programmes that strengthen connections with the broader public, including service-learning opportunities, mentorship schemes, school outreach, and participatory governance, while fostering partnerships between the university and civil society. These initiatives reflect SUAD’s motto: “Building Bridges Between Civilisations.”
Fostering a Culture of Community and Inclusion
By recognising outreach contributions, hosting inclusive events, and promoting diverse voices, SUAD fosters a welcoming, innovative, and engaged campus culture that extends to the greater community.
As a transnational university grounded in both Emirati and French academic traditions, SUAD is uniquely positioned to contribute to Abu Dhabi’s social and cultural fabric. The faculty, students, and alumni lead and participate in initiatives that range from the Legal Clinic Programme with ADGM to sustainability efforts such as SUAD Go Green and COP28 engagement. SUAD is also a hub for cultural events, educational outreach, and community access to facilities like library, sports classes, and science labs.
SUAD’s community engagement strategy was designed with input from internal and external stakeholders and follows the ADRI quality assurance model—Approach, Deployment, Review, and Improvement—to ensure effectiveness and continuous growth.
Through meaningful collaboration, the university is proud to act as a driver of social cohesion, a catalyst for innovation, and a bridge between academic knowledge and community impact.