Canadian University Dubai Celebrates Class of ‘Thank You Sheikha Hind’ at 14th Graduation Ceremony

A Milestone Moment for Canadian University Dubai

In a proud moment for the institution, Canadian University Dubai (CUD) hosted its 14th graduation ceremony at Dubai World Trade Centre. The event celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2025 and honoured the UAE-wide initiative, ‘Thank You Sheikha Hind.’

Held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the convocation saw 500 graduates from five academic schools receive their degrees.

Inspired by Leadership and Community Values

This year’s cohort, named in honour of Her Highness Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum, reflected the national campaign launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The ceremony also aligned with the UAE’s Year of Community, paying tribute to Sheikha Hind’s legacy in promoting compassion, family, and education.

Degrees were conferred across CUD’s five schools:

Management
Engineering, Applied Science and Technology
Architecture and Interior Design
Communication and Creative Industries
Health Sciences and Psychology

Dignitaries and Guests in Attendance

Distinguished guests included Mr. Buti Saeed Al Ghandi, Chancellor and Chair of the Board of Trustees; Prof. Karim Chelli, President and Vice-Chancellor; and Hon. John Baird, who carried the University Mace. Esteemed academic guests also joined from Toronto Metropolitan University and Queen’s University, Canada.

Empowering Words from UAE Leaders

In his keynote address, His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan praised CUD as a model of excellence, saying:
“This graduation ceremony serves as a reminder of the continued progress and unwavering commitment to excellence demonstrated by Canadian University Dubai. It stands today as a leading model of a prestigious institution that serves its students, society, and humanity at large; an institution that actively contributes to the advancement and prosperity of the UAE’s knowledge-based society. Today’s celebration is also a tribute to the visionary leadership of our nation and their steadfast support for higher education institutions across the UAE. It reflects our shared pride in the UAE’s journey of growth and development, a nation that strides confidently toward the future, grounded in unity between its people and its leadership, and founded on stability, security, and a deep investment in education and human development”

His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan attending Canadian University Dubai’s 2025 graduation.

Chancellor Mr. Buti Al Ghandi also reflected on the UAE’s platform for ambition, saying:
“UAE President, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum have created a country and a platform for inclusion and tolerance; a country where dreams can come true if you commit the effort. Canadian University Dubai is a reflection of that, we needed the UAE leadership to make this a success.”

Voices from the Class of 2025

Prof. Chelli encouraged graduates to shape the future boldly:
“With your academic knowledge, and the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship that this university has instilled, you now have the power to shape the future. Do not be afraid to dream big. Whatever path you choose, I urge you to move forward with courage and ambition; play your part in building a future of peace, coexistence and coprosperity. Do not only dream of seeking a job, but aspire to be job creators.”

MBA graduate Jummah Buti Al Ghandi, speaking on behalf of the students, reminded his peers:
“Our degrees are not the end, they are the beginning. They’re not just certificates; they are keys. But it’s up to us to use them. To open new doors. To question boldly. To build what doesn’t yet exist. And to leave things better than we found them.” He concluded, “Let’s remember, what’s next will demand even more. More courage, more adaptability, and more purpose. The world moves faster than you think, and what’s ahead belongs to those who respond to change first. So, let’s meet that future together.”

A Cultural Tribute to Sheikha Hind

A moving artistic performance honoured Her Highness Sheikha Hind. The event featured the poem ‘Ya Hind’ by Sheikha Fatima bint Rashid Al Maktoum, performed by Emirati artist Hamad Al Ameri. The poem echoed sentiments from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s iconic verse “Enti Mithl Ma Enti.”

This performance echoed the emotional resonance of the 2001 verses by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who wrote ‘Enti Mithl Ma Enti, Ghala El Koun Killo’ – ‘You are, as you are, the dearest in the universe’ – in admiration of Her Highness. Years later, in 2015, Sheikha Fatima concluded her poem ‘Ya Hind’ with the very same line, underscoring the timeless affection and reverence for Sheikha Hind.

In recognition of Her Highness’ gracious acceptance to name this cohort in her honor, Canadian University Dubai proudly presented the performance as a tribute to her lasting impact, her embodiment of compassion and unity, and her unwavering commitment to empowering future generations. The ceremony also featured a special poetic performance by renowned Emirati poet Al-Mayidiya Rayana Al-Oud, whose verses beautifully captured the spirit of pride, unity, and celebration, adding a cultural depth to the occasion.

Emirati students leading a cultural parade at Canadian University Dubai’s 14th graduation ceremony.

Celebrating Faculty and Staff Excellence

The ceremony also featured the CUD Awards, recognising outstanding faculty and staff for academic excellence and student engagement.

About Canadian University Dubai

Founded in 2006, Canadian University Dubai is located in City Walk, Downtown Dubai. It ranks as the #1 university in Dubai according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. With over 25 accredited undergraduate and graduate programmes, CUD offers a Canadian-inspired curriculum and a gateway to further study, research, and employment in Canada.

Visit Canadian University Dubai’s (CUD) Website