Ras Al Khaimah announces a new university

The new university originates from the vision of His Highness Sheikh Saud, who wanted to found a university that would serve the needs of Ras Al Khaimah, the United Arab Emirates, and the region.

He wishes to provide high quality educational opportunities to students that both foster a global outlook and are rooted in the region's context and culture.

H.H Sheikh Saud offered remarks about the new university. He emphasized that AURAK, as it will be known, will be vigilant in serving the needs of the community, both professionals wishing to further their education and students leaving secondary school.

The new university is to be a hallmark of excellence for the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, the nation, and the region. After introducing Professor Sharon Siverts as the University's new president, Sheikh Saud praised the faculty and staff of GMU-RAK who will remain and encouraged them in their efforts to build the new university. The branch campus of George Mason University will cease operation at the end of May, but a working partnership will continue with the American University of Ras Al Khaimah.

Walking through the facilities of the new university and visiting its well-equipped laboratories, Sheikh Saud met the workers who were on their first day of making several major building renovations.

In addition to the existing facilities, a campus center for students and two new residence halls will be built and ready for occupancy by the spring 2010 semester. At a reception with faculty, staff, and students, he invited them to offer suggestions to the architects for the design of the new buildings.

The residences, which will be equipped for wireless internet, are in line with the new concept of providing students living space in studio apartments. Sheikh Saud talked informally with students and staff, encouraging them to look forward to the beginning of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah.

During the 2009-2010 academic year, AURAK will offer academic programs in Biology, Business, and Engineering with plans to add three to four new programs in each of the next several years. AURAK also has a highly regarded English language program, which serves the community as well as students preparing for higher education in English.