Examining the Role and Challenges of Sustainable Development Goals for the Universities in the United Arab Emirates

This study aims to explore the potential role of higher education institutions in the United Arab Emirates in driving the world’s progress toward achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The objectives of the study also include examining the challenges faced by the universities while integrating the SDG into their systems. This study adopted a mixed-method study design by conducting interviews with deans (15) and a survey with faculty members (350) of the universities in the UAE. The most pressing challenges reported were difficulties in the identification of priorities for the most impactful SDGs for universities, reduction of the environmental footprints of universities, the lack of sufficient collaboration and communication among universities, tracking the progress of SDGs in the absence of reporting protocols, impediments to participation from cultural and societal factors, bureaucratic hurdles, and political and economic influence over prioritization of SDGs in universities’ strategic planning. However, governmental change in economic and energy policy was highlighted as a favorable measure to accelerate the adoption of SDGs by the universities. Additionally, the results show that the scope of research and collaborative projects at the universities are limited and do not bring about any substantial change in society.