Exeter expands scientific collaboration in the Emirates 

A partnership on a potentially world-leading marine research centre and a new collaborative geology degree that will create new educational pathways between the UK and the United Arab Emirates were among the highlights of an international visit to Sharjah for the University of Exeter this week. 

The President and Vice-Chancellor and other University leaders met counterparts at the universities of Khorfakkan, Kalba and Al Dhaid to deepen and broaden education and research partnerships. They also met with alumni in the country and showcased pioneering work being undertaken by Exeter marine scientists. 

The University of Al Dhaid hosted the first leg of the visit, as the two institutions formalised an agreement to develop a dual BSc in Geology, enabling Emirati students to complete their degree at Exeter.  Academics in Exeter’s Camborne School of Mines will partner with Al Dhaid to launch the programme in September 2027. 

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Al Dhaid, signed the agreement with Professor Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter.

“Together, we have designed a programme that provides clear employability paths, and focuses on real employment needs, here in Sharjah,” said Professor Roberts. “Our dual degree with Al Dhaid is the latest in a series of partnerships that deepens our scientific engagement with Sharjah.  We look forward to welcoming these students to the University of Exeter in the years ahead.”

Later, His Highness hosted a reception for 100 Exeter alumni who had travelled from across the Gulf region to attend. The event was a celebration of the 40th anniversary of His Highness’ graduation from Exeter with a PhD in Arabic and Islamic studies, as well as an opportunity for the University to present some of its key research developments, particularly in the field of marine science.   During his speech His Highness confirmed his enduring support for Exeter.

The marine theme was the focus of the final event of the visit – the launch of the Sharjah Marine Science Research Centre at the University of Khorfakkan.  Designed in collaboration with Exeter marine scientists, the centre will foster joint research projects in marine biodiversity and conservation between Exeter and Khorfakkan. Five Exeter researchers from the Department of Ecology and Conservation on our Penryn campus now hold joint appointments at the new Centre – Professor Brendan Godley, Dr Richard Sherley, Dr Kristian Metcalfe, Dr Luis Huckstadt and Dr Sam Weber.

The launch event also conferred honorary University of Exeter professorships for key academics connected to the centre, namely its new director, Professor Stephen Widdicombe, a former Director of Science at Plymouth Marine Laboratory; Khorfakkan’s Chancellor, Professor Ali Hilal Al Naqbi; and eminent marine scientist, Professor Henrik Stahl.

Professor Roberts said: “In the years ahead, Exeter and Khorfakkan scientists based at the centre will chart biodiversity hotspots across coral reefs, mangroves, seagrass beds and offshore islands, and create the first comprehensive blueprint of Sharjah’s coastal waters. This centre – the result of His Highness’ vision and foresight – will become the regional hub for marine and ocean science, and one of the world’s great scientific facilities devoted to this area of study.”