The University of Al Dhaid was established in 2024 by Emiri Decree issued by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of the Emirate of Sharjah, and President of the University. It is a non-profit educational institution dedicated to providing high-quality academic programmes, supported by the latest technologies and research methodologies, with the aim of making a meaningful contribution to community service and development.
Since its founding, the University of Al Dhaid has enjoyed the generous patronage and continuous support of His Highness, enabling the creation of a state-of-the-art academic institution that fulfills national aspirations and expands opportunities for student excellence. The University comprises the Colleges of Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine, Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Computing and Intelligent Systems, Law, Business Administration, and Environmental Sciences.
As a beacon of science and research, the University is committed to continuously developing its academic programmes and expanding its fields of study to align with the needs of the local and regional labour markets. Particular emphasis is placed on agriculture and veterinary medicine, given their strategic importance to sustainable development.
The University’s integrated campus is distinguished by its impressive architecture and advanced facilities, including a central library, state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories, specialised research facilities, and dedicated spaces for student activities—providing a comprehensive and inspiring learning environment.
The University of Al Dhaid is committed to preparing highly qualified graduates who possess both academic excellence and practical skills, and it strives to play an active role in shaping the future through education, research, and community engagement.
His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, President of the University of Al Dhaid, is a visionary leader whose lifelong dedication to education, culture, and intellectual advancement has left a lasting impact on the nation.
Born on July 2, 1939, in the Emirate of Sharjah, His Highness began his early education at Al-Islah Al-Qasimia School and completed his secondary studies between Sharjah and Kuwait. He further pursued English language studies before embarking on an academic journey marked by excellence. In 1965, he enrolled at the Faculty of Agriculture at Cairo University and graduated in 1971 with a bachelor's degree in Agricultural Engineering. He later earned a Ph.D. in History from the University of Exeter in 1985, followed by a second doctorate in the Political Geography of the Gulf from Durham University in 1999.
His Highness served as the first Minister of Education in the United Arab Emirates, playing a pioneering role in shaping the country’s educational system. As the Ruler of Sharjah, he led a comprehensive transformation of the emirate into a hub for learning and culture, establishing and overseeing leading institutions such as the American University of Sharjah, University of Sharjah, University of Al Dhaid, University of Kalba, and University of Khorfakkan, among others.
A prolific author and cultural figure, His Highness has written over 80 books in history, literature, and theater, many of which have been translated into around 20 languages. His cultural legacy includes launching landmark initiatives such as the Sharjah Museums Authority, House of Wisdom, the Geological Park, and Al Dhaid North Pasture.
Sheikh Dr. Sultan embodies the essence of enlightened leadership-combining strategic vision with intellectual depth and cultural passion. His unwavering commitment continues to shape a brighter future for Sharjah and the United Arab Emirates.
