The University of Dubai signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Erasmus University Rotterdam (#1 Ranking in the Netherlands) on October 6^th, 2016 at UDís Conference Area to build and ensure a mutually beneficial academic partnership between both parties. The MoU was signed in the presence of representatives from both sides including H.E. Mr. Ahmed Aboutaleb, Mayor of the City of Rotterdam; H.E. Mr. Frank Mollen, Ambassador of the Netherlands in the UAE; Dr. Mijke Zeegers, Project Manager International Education and Acquisition at Erasmus University Rotterdam;Dr. Eesa Al Bastaki, UD President along with UD staff, faculty members and students. It aimed at establishing a common platform at which both universities can exchange students and faculty members, cooperate in research, and design a distance education module. Dr. Al Bastaki greeted the attendees while stating: ìSigning this MoU with a prestigious university like Erasmus proves that we at the University of Dubai can be number one.î ìThis partnership is just a beginning for more future cooperation because sharing and healthy competitions help in achieving success,î he added. Highlighting the significance of this MoU, H.E. Mayor Aboutaleb said: ìToday, we should celebrate diversity. In fact, we cannot only learn by walking in a forest, but we learn when we meet, listen to each other, and communicate.î During the event, representatives from both parties delivered brief yet informative presentations about the history, curriculum, accreditations, student body, objectives, and academics of both universities.