The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has officially announced that the nomination window for the inaugural UAE Award in Higher Education will close on September 30, 2026, at 12:00 PM. Held under the patronage of Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, this new initiative seeks to celebrate excellence and innovation across the country’s academic and scientific research landscape. Higher education and TVET institutions, along with their staff, are encouraged to visit the Ministry's official website to review evaluation criteria and submit their applications for the various award categories before the deadline. Following the assessment phase in October, the winners will be honored in December 2026 with both financial prizes and honorary recognition.

This prestigious award is designed to bolster the UAE’s reputation as a premier global hub for knowledge and cutting-edge innovation. By highlighting transformational projects and fostering stronger ties between academic institutions and the industrial sector, the Ministry aims to elevate the competitiveness of the nation's educational framework. The program is divided into four core pillars—Leadership, Readiness, Pioneers, and National Impact—which encompass a wide range of achievements from sustainable institutional performance and future-ready projects to groundbreaking scientific research and successful strategic partnerships.