Architecture Program Becomes First in the GCC to Earn UNESCO-UIA Validation

Ajman University's Architecture Program has earned elite validation status from UNESCO-UIA, the International Union of Architects. AU is the first university in the UAE and GCC – and the third in the Arab world – to receive this honor.

The recognition of architecture programs by the UNESCO-UIA Validation System represents an internationally benchmarked assessment of quality in architectural education. UNESCO-UIA Validation advances the creation of a global network of recognized architecture programs, including their faculty and students.  

The process of assessment for UNESCO-UIA Validation is carried out through robust, unbiased, evidence-based peer review.

• Fahar Hayati, Dean of the College Engineering
• Jihad Awad, Chair of the Architecture Department
• Buzaid Boudiaf 
• Sahar Makky 
• Iyad Jumaa 

Additionally, 45 architecture students worked incredibly hard to prepare their portfolios, under the supervision and review by Dr. Buzaid, for the review team. Their portfolios were instrumental in defining the quality of AU’s program for the reviewers. 

The outcome establishes AU as a global leader in architecture and further affirms the University’s place on the global map of higher education.