The American University in Dubai (AUD) celebrated the Class of 2026 while recognizing exceptional academic achievement, leadership, service, and contributions to campus life during its annual Graduation Gala and Awards Ceremony, held on Sunday, 28 June 2026, at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre.

Bringing together graduating students, faculty, and staff, the evening marked an important milestone for the graduating class while honoring individuals and student organizations whose accomplishments have enriched the AUD community.

Among the evening's highlights was the presentation of the University's highest student honors. The President's Award for Undergraduate Student Excellence was presented to Tania Khachek, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design, while the President's Award for Graduate Student Excellence was awarded to Bhavna Dahiya, Master of Arts in International Affairs.

The Office of Student Affairs also presented its annual awards recognizing excellence in leadership, community service, student engagement, athletics, and campus involvement:

• Community Service Award — Jana El Rassy, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design
• Outstanding Student Club Award — Cinematopia
• Outstanding Event of the Year Award — AUD Health Center, for the Pink Bake Sale 2025
• AUD Ambassador Award — Georges Samaha, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
• Student Leadership Award — Nahla Fahl, Bachelor of Architecture
• Outstanding Club Advisor Award — Prof. Mattia Gambardella, Assistant Professor of Architecture
• Outstanding Peer Advisor Award — Mariam Abdalla, Bachelor of Architecture
• Athlete of the Year — Toufic Al Akl, Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
• Athlete of the Year — Natalia Lopez, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communication, Major in Advertising

Held annually, the AUD Graduation Gala and Awards Ceremony celebrates graduating students while recognizing outstanding members of the University community through the President's Awards, Departmental Awards, and Student Affairs Awards.