The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) and Liwa University have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in research, innovation, and workforce development, supporting Abu Dhabi’s economic priorities and preparing national talent for the evolving labor market.
The agreement aims to enhance collaboration in research and development, foster innovation, nurture national competencies, and improve workforce readiness in line with the emirate’s economic and social development goals.
Ahmed Jassim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADDED, witnessed the signing of the MoU, which was signed by Hamad Sayah Al Mazrouei, Undersecretary of ADDED, and Dr. Ali Saeed bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Liwa University.
The MoU establishes a framework for knowledge exchange, applied research, and stronger collaboration between academia and policymakers while equipping national talent with skills required for the future economy.
Under the partnership, the two sides will collaborate on research covering key economic priorities, including artificial intelligence and its impact on jobs, entrepreneurship, innovation, consumer protection, intellectual property rights, and the role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in economic development.
Al Mazrouei said that the partnership supports ADDED’s strategic objective of strengthening links between higher education institutions and the labor market by combining academic excellence, scientific research, and practical expertise to foster innovation, entrepreneurship, and specialized skills that contribute to Abu Dhabi’s economic growth.
Al Dhaheri noted that the partnership will create new opportunities for joint educational, applied, and research initiatives aimed at enhancing economic performance and addressing future challenges. He added that Liwa University’s academic and research capabilities will support the development of innovative solutions that contribute to Abu Dhabi’s economic development.
He added that the university offers 37 academic specializations, including master’s programs, all designed to meet the needs of the labor market in Abu Dhabi and the UAE, providing a strong foundation for collaboration with ADDED.
The agreement also includes expert lectures, knowledge-sharing sessions, and student engagement on entrepreneurship, labor market trends, consumer protection, and intellectual property. It also provides structured internship opportunities at ADDED ranging from eight weeks to six months.
In addition, ADDED and Liwa University will organize joint workshops, public lectures, exhibitions, and academic and cultural events while promoting innovation, patent registration, and expanding access to university facilities and library resources for ADDED employees.
