# Mansoor bin Mohammed Honours Graduates at 28th Commencement Ceremony of the American University in Dubai
His Highness Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, President of the UAE National Olympic Committee, attended the 28th commencement ceremony of the American University in Dubai (AUD), held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, presenting the graduating Class of 2025 with their degrees.
### Celebrating Diversity and Merit
Sheikh Mansoor honoured **375 graduates** representing **52 nationalities** from across AUD’s six academic schools. Notably, **25%** of the students are Emirati nationals, showcasing the university’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity in higher education.
### Remarks by University Leadership
In his address, His Excellency Elias Bou Saab, Executive Vice President of AUD, praised the university’s impact in nurturing future leaders. He noted:
> “Congratulations to the graduating class of 2025! You have persevered in a rapidly changing world and faced challenges with grace and grit. This moment is yours; you’ve earned it.”
He highlighted AUD’s commitment to innovation and progress, referencing the university’s new academic programs, including:
– An **interdisciplinary program** combining Artificial Intelligence and Business.
– A **Game Design and Development program** to support the growing gaming infrastructure in the UAE.
– A forthcoming **School of Medicine** in collaboration with the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.
### Keynote Address
The keynote address was delivered by **Her Excellency Dr. Mariam Matar**, Founder and Chairperson of the UAE Genetic Diseases Association. She inspired graduates with reflections on purpose and social contribution:
> “I see not just graduates but hope in motion. Remember your roots and prepare for the challenges of life. Our progress in the UAE has been built together, hand in hand.”
### Acknowledging Support
Valedictorian **Maya Aref Maklad**, who graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, delivered an emotional address:
> “Today, we celebrate a moment filled with happiness and gratitude for the unwavering support we’ve received. As we stand at this crossroad, let’s remember, we are more life-ready than we think.”
### Presidential Remarks
Dr. Kyle Long, President of AUD, congratulated the Class of 2025, emphasizing the university’s mission to shape lifelong learners:
> “During your time with us, you changed. You leave prepared for a world that will keep getting bigger and more complicated. Your degree not only reflects what you’ve learned but also that you’ve learned how to learn.”
### New Academic Programs
As part of AUD’s innovation agenda, the university is launching two new undergraduate degree programmes:
– **Bachelor of Business Administration in Artificial Intelligence in Business**
– **Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development**
These initiatives reinforce AUD’s leadership in preparing graduates for emerging industries and align with national priorities for innovation and development.
