Research Partnerships

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi believes that research achieves its full potential when it engages with the world beyond academia. The university’s approach to partnerships is grounded in the belief that innovation, knowledge, and societal progress flourish when sectors come together around shared challenges and opportunities. Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi actively collaborates with stakeholders from diverse sectors to co-create solutions that respond to real-world needs — from economic development and public policy to environmental sustainability and social inclusion, the university develops use cases that address the needs of leading industries and deliver knowledge for data-driven decision-making.

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is firmly anchored in its local and regional environment. The university maintains close ties with local communities, municipalities, regional authorities, and economic actors, ensuring that its research responds to real needs and contributes directly to the development of the surrounding ecosystem. 

At the same time, SUAD is an active member of international research networks and collaborations, bringing together a pool of 14,000 researchers. The university engages with academic and non-academic partners across borders to exchange knowledge, co-develop solutions, and address global challenges. 

This dual commitment allows Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi to:

• Address place-based challenges with tailored, evidence-based approaches that strengthen local resilience and innovation.

• Contribute to global agendas, including the UN Sustainable Development Goals, by participating in large-scale, cross-disciplinary research initiatives. 

• Promote knowledge circulation between local and international partners, bridging contexts and amplifying the impact of its research. 

• Offer its researchers and students opportunities for international mobility, collaboration, and visibility on the world stage.