HH Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, Co-founder of Aurora50 and President and CEO of UAE Independent Climate Change Accelerators (UICCA), has received an honorary degree from Heriot-Watt University Dubai, in recognition of exceptional contributions to the field of sustainability and the green economy.
The university also conferred an honorary degree on HE Dr Abdullah Bin Mohammed Belhaif Al Nuaimi, also for outstanding accomplishments in the areas of sustainability, climate change, community development, and government service.
Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, Pro-Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, said: “Her Highness Sheikha Shamma and His Excellency Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi are shining examples from different generations of how we can make meaningful impact in society, and will serve as inspiring role models for future generations of Emiratis.
“It brings me immense pleasure to see Heriot-Watt University honour two of my fellow Emiratis for their significant contributions to the region.”
HH Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan has founded and led several high-impact ventures and initiatives. As the President and CEO of UICCA, she directs an organisation committed to accelerating climate action by growing the green economy through initiatives in the circular economy, carbon solutions, and climate adaptation.
She is also the founder of several climate solutions businesses including The Climate Tribe, Reset MENA, and Alliances for Global Sustainability. In 2023 she was selected as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader.
HE Dr Abdullah bin Mohammed Belhaif Al Nuaimi is the former Minister of Climate Change and Environment and former Minister of Infrastructure Development in the UAE.
He played a pivotal role in shaping and executing the UAE’s climate resilience and ecosystem protection strategies through the formulation of impactful policies and initiatives.
Dr Al Nuaimi also previously headed up the UAE Council for Climate Change and Environment, the National Biosecurity Committee, and is the chair of the Centre of Excellence in Smart and Sustainable Construction (CESC).
Sheikha Shamma bint Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, co-founder of Aurora50, has been appointed by the Atlantic Council Global Energy Center to its Women Leaders in Energy and Climate Fellowship, the first woman from the GCC to do so.
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