20th June 2019, Dubai, United Arab Emirates:Under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan Mubarak Al Nahyan, Cabinet Minister, Ministry of Tolerance, and In line with the Year of Tolerance, the American University in the Emirates held its 9th commencement ceremony at the Sheikh Rashid Hall, Dubai World Trade Center. The evening included VIP guests like Sheikh Rashid Bin Khalifa Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, His excellency Muhammad Bin Bduwah Al Darmaki, the University’s patron, Major General Ahmed Nasser Al-Raisi, Chairman of Board of Trustees, and Dr. Muthanna Ghani Abdul Razzaq, President of the University along with the respected select media and influencers, faculty, parents, alumni and students.

The graduation celebrated the success of students graduating both masters and undergraduate courses. A total of 500 students graduated this year, with both undergraduate and master’s degrees from the seven colleges at AUE, like the College of Media and Mass Communication, the College of Design, College of Business Administration, Computer and Information Technology, College of Law, College of Education and  College of Security and Global Studies.

The ceremony began with a flag hosting followed by an inspiring speech by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance. “I would like to congratulate the American University in the Emirates on it’s 9th commencement ceremony. As we celebrate the Year of Tolerance together,  we would like to extend our appreciation to the University and it’s keen mission to become a pioneer in representing this concept of tolerance, peace and brotherhood. One of the bigger achievements of our late founding father, May his soul rest in peace, was to bring about tolerance in the nation without any discriminations.  This is evident by the values followed across the country today – treating all people with respect, dignity and providing equal opportunities to one and all. “

“On behalf of everyone here, I extend my thanks and respect to His Highness Sheikh Muhammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and prime minister of the United Arab Emirates, and ruler of the Emirate of Dubai, to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the United Arab Emirates Armed Forces. Their support and vision for education in the country is consistent. With dedicated efforts in providing quality educational opportunities for all. Our rulers have emphasised on the role of universities and their importance in the world of today, in combating ignorance and helping our youth become more knowledgeable and aware.”

“The graduation day is the beginning of a new phase in the lives of students. It is the start of your journey into the future. I hope and pray that each one of you makes the American University in the Emirates and your families proud, and become a good role model in our community and in the world.” he concluded.

His Excellency Major General Ahmed Nasser Al-Raisi, Chairman of the Board of Trustees also expressed his delight. “Truly a day of great joy and celebration as our university celebrates the Year of Tolerance initiated by Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the State, President of the United Arab Emirates. The concept of tolerance for all represents the principles followed by the Late founding father of the UAE. It entails his values and explains all of his achievements. “

The university extended its gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Mubarak Al Nahyan for his presence at the graduation ceremony and his generous gesture from His Excellency to enjoy and share the joy with the graduates and their families. The ceremony ended with popular folk dancing performances and various dances presented by the students to the audience expressing their happiness and success.