Jamil Khan, Senior Reporter
American University in Dubai (AUD) has honoured the achievements of the Class of 2024 at its 27th graduation ceremony staged at Sheikh Rashid Hall, Dubai World Trade Centre. Inspiring this year’s graduates with the keynote address was Moaza Saeed Al Marri, Executive Director of the Director General’s Office at the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, and graduate of the university’s Bachelor in Fashion Design & Marketing, and Master of Business Administration programs.
The commencement was held in the presence of Sheikh Mansoor Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Sports Council.
This year’s 317 graduates were joined by more than 3,000 invitees, representing the AUD Board of Governors, distinguished guests, faculty, staff, family and friends. Welcoming the audience, AUD Executive Vice President, Bou Saab, spoke of the importance of education in promoting mutual understanding and dialogue for the preservation and progress of society, and paid tribute to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai for his leadership in this domain.
Addressing the graduates, Al Marri reflected on her own experiences of the university, saying, “Having been one of the recipients of AUD’s prestigious His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum scholarship is a privilege I do not bear lightly. It is a responsibility to give back to this land that has offered us so much. Today, in my current role within the government, I am blessed with the opportunity to give back to our community in a tangible and impactful manner.”
Inspiring the graduates to use their education to contribute to the advancement of Dubai, Al Marri added, “Together, we have the opportunity to leave our mark on this vibrant city, shaping its future with our dedication and collective efforts. The UAE’s transformation serves as a beacon of inspiration; it’s proof that dreams, not matter how ambitious, can be realized.”