Abu Dhabi University has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first university in the Middle East to receive Academic Accreditation for its Master of Project Management (MPM) program from the Association for Project Management (APM).
The accreditation highlights the university’s commitment to providing globally recognized education and equipping students with the skills needed to manage complex projects across multiple industries.
Dr. Hamdi Sheibani, Dean of the College of Engineering at Abu Dhabi University, said:
“Achieving APM Academic Accreditation reflects ADU’s commitment to academic excellence and to delivering programs that benchmarked against the highest international professional standards. It also highlights the College of Engineering’s strong academic foundation and its position among the leading engineering colleges in the UAE and the region. As the first university in the MENA region to earn this distinction, we are reinforcing our leadership in project management education and ensuring that our graduates are equipped with globally recognized credentials, real-world competencies, and a clear professional pathway that enhances their career progression both locally and internationally.”
Jan Lonnen, Senior Accreditation and Assessment Manager at APM
“This accreditation is a positive step for APM and Abu Dhabi University. It shows the growing focus in the UAE on strengthening project skills and raising standards in how projects are delivered aligned to highly regarded global standards. By achieving APM accreditation, the university is giving students a recognized mark of quality and helping build a stronger project management community locally. It also supports a more consistent talent pipeline, aligned to international best practice, that benefits employers and major programs across the region.”
What does this accreditation mean for Students and the University?
The accreditation applies to the Master of Project Management program offered by the university’s College of Engineering. It confirms that the curriculum aligns with the APM Body of Knowledge, ensuring students learn internationally accepted project management practices, ethical standards, and leadership skills.
This recognition strengthens the university’s reputation as a leader in professional education and innovation. It also supports the growing demand for skilled project managers in sectors such as infrastructure, construction, technology, and business development across the region.
Another major advantage for students enrolled in the program is complimentary student membership with APM. This membership provides access to professional networks, industry insights, events, and learning resources that help students build strong connections within the global project management community.
Does the accreditation offer any advantages after Graduation?
Graduates of the accredited program will also benefit from a faster pathway to full APM membership, which typically requires five years of experience. However, graduates from the accredited program can achieve this status in just three years, accelerating their professional growth.
The accreditation supports the university’s Vision 2027, which focuses on globally accredited education, strong industry partnerships, and improving graduate employability. It also contributes to the UAE’s broader goal of building a knowledge-based economy and strengthening national project delivery capabilities.
By achieving this accreditation, Abu Dhabi University continues to reinforce its commitment to academic excellence while supporting the UAE’s vision of building a knowledge-driven economy and a highly skilled workforce.
