Forbes Middle East

Ajman University's Partnership with Forbes Middle East

Ajman University has established a distinguished partnership with Forbes Middle East, one of the region's most influential media platforms for business, leadership, and innovation. Through active participation in premier summits, prestigious recognitions of its leadership and alumni, and high-level representation at flagship events, Ajman University has cemented its position as a key academic voice in the regional discourse on sustainability, leadership, and digital transformation.

Conferences & Events

Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit 2024

Ajman University's Office of Sustainability participated in the second edition of the Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit 2024, held at Marina Hall, ADNEC Center, Abu Dhabi, from October 17 to 18, 2024, under the theme "Shaping a Sustainable Tomorrow." Chaired by H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of State for Foreign Trade, the two-day summit served as a leading platform to accelerate progress toward sustainable development, strengthen climate resilience, and promote environmentally responsible economic growth.

The summit brought together leaders and experts from both the public and private sectors across the region to develop and adopt green and sustainable practices that address the unique environmental and economic challenges faced by Middle Eastern nations. Ajman University's participation in the summit reaffirmed its strong commitment to supporting national and international sustainability initiatives, while reinforcing its position as a leading academic institution in innovation and sustainability at both the regional and global levels.

Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit 2025

Building on its engagement in 2024, Ajman University continued its partnership with Forbes Middle East through the third edition of the Sustainability Leaders Summit, held on October 14–15, 2025, in Abu Dhabi under the theme "Guided By Legacy." The summit convened over 5,000 leaders, experts, and entrepreneurs from across the region, with H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi once again chairing the proceedings. The event underscored the pivotal role of youth and technology in shaping a more sustainable economy and featured the launch of the Forbes Middle East Youth Council—a platform that aligns closely with Ajman University's mission to empower the next generation of leaders.

Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit 2026 – 4th Edition

Ajman University is proud to announce its continued participation in the fourth edition of the Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit, scheduled to take place on October 14–15, 2026, in Abu Dhabi. The summit has evolved beyond a traditional sustainability conference to become the region's leading platform for Guardian Leadership—a philosophy that recognises leadership is measured not only by the success achieved today, but by the prosperity, resilience, and opportunities created for future generations. The summit brings together government, business, investment, academia, and the next generation of leaders to explore how responsible leadership can strengthen economies, accelerate innovation, build enduring institutions, protect natural capital, and develop the capabilities that tomorrow's societies will depend upon.

Forbes Middle East Building the Future Summit 2026

On January 21, 2026, Ajman University participated in the Forbes Middle East Building the Future Summit, a premier gathering of the region's most influential leaders, innovators, and changemakers committed to shaping a prosperous and sustainable tomorrow. The summit explored how leadership can transcend the demands of the present to build lasting foundations—economies that can withstand volatility, institutions that endure, and capabilities that empower future generations.

Speakers & Representatives from Ajman University

Dr. Karim Seghir – Speaker, Forbes Middle East Building the Future Summit 2026

Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, delivered a compelling address at the Forbes Middle East Building the Future Summit 2026, calling for universities to become "engines of adaptability" in a rapidly evolving world. In his speech, Dr. Seghir emphasized the urgent need to bridge the gap between academia and industry, warning that without this alignment, the education sector risks being left behind by the very industries it aims to serve. He advocated for a comprehensive overhaul of outdated curricula, stressing that AI, data, and digital technologies must become the new foundational pillars of higher education.

Dr. Seghir highlighted Ajman University's proactive approach to transformation, referencing the institution's realignment of programs in engineering, IT, and business to meet the demands of a digital-first economy. He called on universities to treat their environments as living labs, moving beyond traditional textbooks to foster adaptability, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence in students. Dr. Seghir also underscored that with the UAE's youth population set to exceed 1.5 million by 2030, universities hold a pivotal responsibility in shaping the next generation of leaders equipped to navigate complex global challenges.

A key highlight of his address was the introduction of the "Blueprint for Resilient Leadership," a compendium of insights, case studies, and actionable strategies curated by Forbes Middle East and the Guardian Leadership Council—featuring contributions from Ajman University. This blueprint serves as a practical guide for fostering adaptability, resilience, and responsible leadership, reinforcing the critical role of academic institutions in building resilient economies and empowering future-ready graduates.

Ms. Maya Haddad – Panelist, Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit 2026 (4th Edition)

Ms. Maya Haddad, Senior Sustainability Manager at Ajman University's Office of Sustainability, has been selected as a panelist for the fourth edition of the Forbes Middle East Sustainability Leaders Summit 2026. She will participate in the panel discussion "Future Leaders Dialogue: From Successors to Stewards," which explores how leadership succession is not simply about identifying who comes next—it is about protecting institutional knowledge, values, and purpose while preparing organizations for a changing future. The session delves into succession planning, stewardship, and how established leaders can prepare the next generation to inherit responsibility and lead through uncertainty. Her selection as a panelist at this prestigious global platform reflects Ajman University's growing influence in sustainability and leadership discourse, and its commitment to advancing the UAE's sustainability agenda on the international stage.

Dr. Raja Al Gurg – Named Among Forbes' World's Most Powerful Women 2024

Dr. Raja Al Gurg, a distinguished member of Ajman University's Board of Trustees, was named among The World's Most Powerful Women 2024 by Forbes. Dr. Al Gurg was recognized for her leadership, innovation, and resilience, with Forbes highlighting her dedication, visionary insights, and commitment to excellence. Her achievements reflect the values of empowerment, progress, and innovation that Ajman University upholds, and her remarkable recognition underscores her significant influence as a guiding force within the university community.

Raghad Fahmi – Named to Forbes Middle East 'Digital Stars Under 30' 2024

Raghad Fahmi, a graduate of Ajman University's College of Dentistry (Bachelor of Dental Surgery), was named to Forbes Middle East's 2024 'Digital Stars Under 30' list, recognizing her significant impact in content creation across the MENA region. This distinction highlights the most creative and influential young talents in the digital sector.

Through its partnership with Forbes Middle East spanning high-level summit participation, distinguished recognitions of its leadership and alumni, and contributions to regional sustainability discourse—Ajman University continues to demonstrate its commitment to academic excellence, leadership development, and sustainable impact on the national and international stage.