A safe and dynamic city to study: SUAD as a launchpad for global-minded students

"I never imagined I could feel this safe and supported while living abroad," says Lalia, a master’s student at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) on exchange from Sorbonne University Paris. Her words capture the experience of many international students in Abu Dhabi, a city ranked the safest in the world for the tenth consecutive year according to Numbeo’s 2024 Safety Index — a ranking confirmed by The National and Time Out Abu Dhabi. 

For students like Lalia, the combination of a secure, dynamic city and a world-class university creates an environment where learning and personal growth go hand in hand. In Abu Dhabi, students can explore freely, engage with diverse communities, and develop confidence and intercultural skills that will serve them in global careers. Studies in cognitive psychology indicate that environments perceived as safe enhance attention, memory, and learning, turning assurance into a catalyst for success. 

Peace of mind for parents 

Lalia’s parents describe the city as ideal for young adults: “It’s a safe and modern city, perfect for a young adult,” her father Adama explains, reassured knowing she is thriving even from afar. “I would have loved to have such opportunities at that age,” Sabrina, her mother, adds. “Abu Dhabi offers a genuine pathway to building a future, with professional, personal, and networking opportunities. The city is very safe, which brings daily peace of mind.” 

Dr Majed Al Khemeiri, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Administrative and Financial Affairs at SUAD, notes the direct impact of this safety on students: “It allows students to settle in quickly, move around freely, and fully enjoy their university life.” Being a parent means accepting that your child will go far to achieve their goals, but never at the expense of their safety. And calm parents, ultimately, give rise to confident children. 

Daily life in Abu Dhabi also supports students’ comfort and independence. Lalia adds: “The city is incredibly convenient: everything works, everything is designed to make life easier. Living alone makes all the difference.” Punctual public transport, clean streets, taxis available 24/7, and well-supervised residences create a secure and fluid environment. Shared rituals (such as Ramadan gathering, movie nights, or group activities) foster a sense of home within the global city. 

A healthy mind in a healthy body 

Abu Dhabi offers a rich cultural scene, from festivals and markets to open-air screenings and exhibitions. “I’ve visited the Louvre Abu Dhabi several times: it’s a place you return to with pleasure, for the art as much as for the seaside stroll, ”<>/iLalia says. The city’s sports infrastructure encourages a healthy lifestyle. Thanks to SUAD’s facilities (fully equipped gyms, rooftop courts, and nearby paddleboarding centres) Lalia discovered new ways to stay active: “I had never gone to the gym before. Now, I go regularly. I also started kayaking, tennis, and paddleboarding.” Major international events such as the Formula 1 Grand Prix, Mubadala Tennis, and desert races offer further opportunities, while weekends allow for quiet cafés, beach strolls, or short trips across the Emirates and nearby countries like Oman or Qatar. 

In addition to its commitment to a healthy lifestyle, SUAD has achieved a significant milestone by becoming an accredited centre within the NICAS (National Indoor Climbing Award Schemes) network. The university is now officially recognised as a NICAS Bouldering accredited centre and, notably, the first international university to receive NICAS Ascend accreditation, reinforcing its dedication to holistic development and innovative sports engagement. 

Learning without studying? 

Immersion in a globalised city naturally develops intercultural skills: fluency in English, adaptability, attentive listening, and openness to others. This practical experience helps students gain self-assurance in professional settings. Lalia recalls feedback from her former internship supervisor in Dubai, who told her, “I can see that you are more confident,” highlighting her ability to communicate effectively, work in multicultural teams, and contribute actively to projects. 

Dr Majed emphasises that SUAD’s diversity (over 90 nationalities represented!) is a key asset: “Clubs, events, living spaces… everything is designed for everyone to feel respected and able to express themselves.” 

Asked about opportunities for youth and women in Abu Dhabi, Lalia doesn’t hesitate: “It’s the ideal place. Welcoming, inclusive, and safe. Whether shy or outgoing, you find your place. Women are valued and supported here.”. Statistics support her view: in the UAE, women make up around 70 % of all university graduates, and female participation in STEM disciplines is notably high, with approximately 56 % to 61 % of STEM graduates being women. The country also ranks among the leading nations regionally for gender parity according to the Global Gender Gap Report and related indices. Female students can overcome impostor syndrome and envision themselves as future leaders. 

A foundation for the future 

Within this stable, open, and vibrant city, SUAD provides more than academic instruction: it is a foundation for students to develop personally and professionally while navigating a globalised world.