Announcement of the Establishment of Zayed Military University — the First of Its Kind in the Region
September 01, 2021
Based on the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, the launch of Zayed Military University was announced today. The university aims to prepare and train the next generation of military and security officers in the UAE, affirming the country’s commitment to investing in national talent and advancing military education to the highest training standards across various specializations. The announcement came during a press conference revealing full details about the university and its objectives — to become a globally leading institution, attract top talents to serve the nation, and apply the highest education and training standards to ensure candidates receive the best academic and military education. Minister of State for Defence Affairs, Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, stated: “As the UAE approaches celebrations of its 50th anniversary, we are pleased to announce a new chapter in the country’s development journey within the military education sector — one based on investing in young national minds and capabilities. Given the remarkable progress across all sectors, we must keep pace, especially within the military sector.” He added: “We must achieve harmony and reach the highest national efficiency levels by advancing specialized military and academic education, refining candidates’ abilities, and equipping them with knowledge and experience in line with our nation’s aspirations to protect its achievements and continue its development.” He also expressed pride in the UAE’s global achievements over the past fifty years, emphasizing that education and preparation of future generations represent a fundamental part of these accomplishments. In the defence sector, pride is felt toward members of the armed forces and military colleges that prepared servicemen who sacrificed greatly to serve the nation with honor and dignity. Al Bowardi confirmed that the project was achieved through the directives and direct supervision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, expressing aspirations to see Emirati military candidates participate in training, gain professional and academic expertise, and develop leadership personalities to lead the next phase of modernization in the military institution. The university was established to prepare future military and security officers, equipping them to become capable leaders with professional expertise to defend and protect the UAE and its national interests. Its mission is to provide Emirati officers with comprehensive university education within a military environment, while developing their character and professional capabilities. Highly experienced international military and academic instructors are being recruited to support the university’s strategic goals and develop comprehensive curricula, ensuring candidates acquire the scientific and field skills required after graduation. Non-military academic education will also be emphasized through a strategic partnership program with Rabdan Academy, the university’s technical and operational arm. Brigadier Staff Waleed Al Naqbi, Deputy Commandant of Zayed Military University, said: “Zayed Military University represents a new step and qualitative shift in military education within the UAE’s efforts to provide advanced military training and prepare future leaders, while enhancing harmony between military and security officers from the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Interior.” He added: “The first cohort of candidates is preparing to enter history as the UAE approaches its 50th anniversary and the next fifty years of achievements. Modern challenges require appropriate solutions — this is exactly what we aim for through establishing Zayed Military University. Graduates will be ready to serve their homeland with dedication.”
Zayed Military University has been awarded a Gold Star Rating by the Global Star Rating System for Services
for excellence in government services and digital transformation.