Abu Dhabi University Partners with DAMAC Group to Bridge Academia and Industry

Abu Dhabi University Partners with DAMAC Group to Bridge Academia and Industry

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DAMAC Group, aimed at advancing academic excellence, professional development, and applied research. The collaboration marks a significant step in connecting higher education with the real-world needs of the business sector, providing students and professionals with tangible opportunities to grow and innovate.

Signed at ADU’s Dubai campus, the agreement was formalized by Dr. Anas Najdawi, Campus Director and Associate Professor of Management Information Systems at ADU, and Shirin Sehgal, Vice President of People and Performance at DAMAC Group. The initiative reflects a shared commitment to fostering innovation, workforce readiness, and academic-industry collaboration in key sectors such as real estate, hospitality, logistics, and capital markets.

“At ADU, we are committed to equipping our students with the tools and experiences they need to succeed in sectors such as real estate, hospitality, and digital business,” said Dr. Najdawi. “This partnership creates a transformative opportunity by combining ADU’s academic expertise with DAMAC’s industry engagement, preparing the next generation of leaders to contribute meaningfully across the UAE and beyond.”

Through the partnership:

• ADU students will gain access to internships, mentorship programs, and industry projects, providing practical exposure to DAMAC’s diverse operations.

• DAMAC employees will benefit from scholarships, customized training, and professional development programs delivered by ADU’s faculty.

• Both institutions will engage in joint research, capstone initiatives, and knowledge-sharing platforms to bridge theory and practice.

“This MoU with Abu Dhabi University underscores DAMAC’s ongoing efforts to support academic institutions in shaping the workforce of the future,” said M. P. John, Chief Human Capital Officer at DAMAC.

“By combining ADU’s academic expertise with DAMAC’s industry experience, we are creating pathways that prepare students and employees alike to excel in their careers while contributing positively to the UAE’s knowledge economy,” added Shirin Sehgal.

The collaboration reinforces ADU’s position as a hub for industry-aligned education, applied research, and workforce development all contributing to the UAE’s broader national goals.