Ajman University Champions Gender Equity and Sustainability in Landmark EGBC Women Network White Paper

Ajman University is proud to announce its contribution to a pivotal new publication by the Emirates Green Building Council (EGBC) Women’s Network. Titled “Complementary Strengths – Advancing Equity in the UAE Built Environment (2025),” the white paper delivers a compelling, data-driven case for gender inclusion as a strategic imperative for the region’s sustainable future.

The launch of this white paper marks another significant milestone in Ajman University’s ongoing partnership with the EGBC, reinforcing the university’s commitment to fostering inclusive, equitable, and sustainable built environments.

Gender Inclusion: A Strategic Advantage

The white paper challenges the notion that gender inclusion is merely a social gesture, instead presenting it as a strategic advantage with measurable benefits for innovation, financial resilience, and sustainability.

Based on data gathered from 121 professionals, in-depth interviews, and collaborative discussions led by the EGBC Women’s Network, the findings are unequivocal: women bring quantifiable value to sustainability, inclusivity, and overall wellbeing in the built environment. Furthermore, the report highlights that implementing targeted policies—such as flexible work arrangements, equal pay, and genuinely inclusive workplaces—makes a tangible and measurable difference in driving the industry forward.

Driving Equity in the Built Environment

The UAE’s built environment is undergoing a massive transformation driven by the nation’s Net Zero 2050 strategy and sustainable urban development goals. The white paper emphasizes that this transition requires the diverse perspectives and complementary strengths of all professionals in the field. By capturing the lived experiences and insights of female leaders, the EGBC Women’s Network has provided policymakers, educators, and industry stakeholders with actionable recommendations to close the gender gap and maximize the sector's potential.

Aligning with Ajman University’s Strategic Vision

Ajman University’s participation in this impactful initiative reflects its broader institutional dedication to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

As an institution ranked #1 in the UAE for SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) in the Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Rankings 2026, Ajman University believes that true sustainability cannot be achieved without equity. By actively contributing to the EGBC Women’s Network and integrating these principles into its curriculum and campus operations, the university is preparing a new generation of diverse, inclusive, and forward-thinking sustainability leaders.

A Continuing Partnership

This white paper is the latest outcome of the dynamic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Ajman University and EmiratesGBC. From judging the 13th Annual MENA Green Building Awards to collaborating on the "Healthy UAE Universities Campaign," the partnership continues to yield impactful, real-world results for the UAE’s academic and environmental sectors.

Ajman University remains steadfast in its mission to bridge the gap between academic research, industry practice, and social equity, ensuring that the future of the UAE’s built environment is both green and inclusive.