The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) marked a milestone at the AURAK graduation 2025 ceremonies. For the first time, female graduates outnumbered their male peers.
Of the 331 graduates, 188 were women — representing 56.8% of the class. This marks a powerful shift in representation and highlights a growing wave of ambition among young women in the UAE and beyond.
The second major takeaway was the rising prominence of AI in the career landscape with the number of graduates doubling in just one year.
Artificial Intelligence on the Rise
AURAK graduation 2025 saw the very first batch of the university’s Bachelor in Artificial Intelligence cohort receive their degrees. AURAK’s Bachelor of Science in AI is a four-year program that empowers students to design and develop computer systems and data models, using the latest advances in the field.
This growing interest reflects the university’s role in shaping tech-driven, future-ready careers.
Celebrating Excellence Across Nationalities
AURAK, listed among Top 500 Universities in the 2025 QS World University Rankings and occupying the sixth position among UAE universities, honored 68 graduates and 263 undergraduates at the two ceremonies held on successive days. Eight students earned the Summa Cum Laude (highest distinction) honor. The Class of 2024 began their academic journey during the pandemic and overcame the challenges of online learning with resilience and determination.
Messages of Strength and Purpose
His Excellency Robert Raines, US Consul General in Dubai, delivered the Commencement Address. He praised the resilience of the graduating class and shared:
“Remember your resilience. Remember that you can do this, whether you become scientists, teachers, entrepreneurs, engineers, artists or diplomats. You’re entering a world that faces serious global challenges. You will need your resilience to survive and to succeed, and the world needs you to succeed.
Second, I hope that you’ll remember the value and the importance of community… because it is your community that will nourish you as you grow.”
Dr David A. Schmidt, President of AURAK, added:
“The world you are stepping into demands resilience, adaptability and vision. You’ve proven that you can navigate uncertainty and adapt to the unexpected. You’ve pursued knowledge, not at the absence of obstacles, but often in the face of them. As we confer your degrees, we do more than acknowledge your academic accomplishments, we affirm your readiness to lead and to shape the future.”
Prof Stephen C. Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success / Provost, said:
“Learning is a lifelong process through which you can leverage your knowledge and skills to become leaders and entrepreneurs who can change the world for the better.”
Recognising Academic Achievement
The graduation was attended by the Board of Trustees, faculty, and senior leadership. Mohammed Ayyub delivered the Valedictorian Address on Day One, graduating with a CGPA of 3.95 in Biotechnology. On the second day, two valedictorians were honoured: Maryam Saeed Sanad Abdulla Alnaqbi (Business Administration), the first Emirati in recent years to earn the title, and Leen Mohammad Jamal Zaid (Biotechnology).
About the American University of Ras Al Khaimah
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), located in the United Arab Emirates, is a non-profit, public university that offers a comprehensive set of accredited and internationally recognized undergraduate and postgraduate programs. With a focus on holistic education and practical knowledge, AURAK prepares students to become global citizens who are innovators in their respective fields. Through partnerships with top global universities and organizations, AURAK provides students unparalleled opportunities to gain international exposure and experience.
For more information about American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK),
Further Reading:
- AURAK’s Mass Communication Program Equips UAE Students for the Digital Age
- With psychology placed among Top 10 high-demand careers, AURAK launches intensive psychology programme with unique features
- AURAK Salutes Diversity by Showcasing Cultures of 35 Countries at 12th Global Day