Dubai, May 18, 2016: The University of Dubai and the American University of Ras Al Khaimah have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to provide the local workforce the educational skills required to find solutions to current challenges in various fields, especially in the economic arena. The MoU covered a number of common topics related to the academic environment of the country. It was signed at a ceremony held at the new campus of the University of Dubai by Dr. Eesa M. Al Bastaki, President of University of Dubai, and Professor Hassan Hamdan Al Alkim, President of the University†of†Ras†Al Khaimah. The ceremony was attended by Dr. Mohammed Mahrazi, Director General of the Customs Department of Ras Al Khaimah, and a number of academic and administrative members of both universities. On the occasion, Professor Hassan Hamdan Al Alkim said: ìThe signing of this MoU is an important step towards achieving the UAE Vision 2021 to make the countryís workforce capable of solving current issues. It will also contribute to research and human capital development and support community-based services.î Noting that the cooperation between the two universities is not new, Professor Al Alkim pointed to previous partnerships in international water and energy science, and an environment forum hosted by the American University†of†Ras†Al Khaimah last December during which Dr. Eesa M. Al Bastaki was the keynote speaker. Dr. Al Bastaki is also a member on the Advisory Board of the College of Engineering at the American University. Commenting on the MoU, Dr. Al Bastaki said: ìThe agreement reflects the strong relations between the two universities, and we are pleased that the American University of Ras Al Khaimah is now among our major official partners. We are confident that this MoU will have significant positive impact on the future plans of both the universities.î