Mr. Elias Bou Saab established the American University in Dubai in 1995 and has since focused his vision and leadership on the advancement the university through his guidance and support for all AUD operations, his unyielding implementation and negotiation skills as well as various outreach activities, driving the university to its significant position within the UAE higher education sector. During the span of his 18-year career, in addition to his public servant role as Lebanese Minister of Education and Mayor of Dhour Shweir, he also has ventured in many entrepreneurship initiatives, initiated and engaged in many civic engagement commitments, held an instrumental role in advising the UAE government, as well as founded and actively engaged in many prestigious associations and foundations around the world.