Amazon brings its innovation expertise to AUD's new graduate program

Amazon UAE and the American University in Dubai (AUD) have launched a MicroMaster program in Entrepreneurship and Innovation, integrating Amazon's industry expertise with AUD's academic excellence. According to a joint announcement by Amazon UAE and American University in Dubai, the collaboration aims to develop local talent and prepare students for tomorrow's jobs through practical skills and strategic knowledge. The program begins in May 2026.

The strategic shift toward industry-academic partnerships

This MicroMaster represents a structural shift in how educational institutions partner with industry leaders. Previously, academic programs in entrepreneurship relied primarily on theoretical frameworks. Amazon has changed this by bringing real-world case studies and industry insights directly into the curriculum.

The value chain here is divided into three parts: knowledge creation (Amazon's expertise), knowledge transmission (AUD's academic infrastructure), and knowledge application (students' career outcomes). By integrating these components, both organisations can create competitive advantages that neither could achieve on its own.

The program structure and competitive dynamics

The MicroMaster comprises three graduate-level courses: Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Social Innovation, and Commercialisation of Innovation. What matters is not just the curriculum; what matters is how students navigate the full innovation lifecycle from ideation to commercialisation through hands-on assessments and industry-informed projects.

"We are proud to work alongside AUD in launching this MicroMaster program," said Prashant Saran, Director of Operations of Amazon Middle East, Africa, and Turkey. "By sharing Amazon's industry expertise, global and local insights, as well as case studies from our innovation journey, we are directly supporting AUD's mission to equip today's learners with the practical skills and strategic knowledge that will prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow."

This addresses a critical gap identified in recent research. As the Dell study showed, 92% of UAE firms prioritise AI and innovation, but 100% face skills gaps. The MicroMaster directly tackles this mismatch between industry demand and available talent.

Network effects and talent development

The program creates virtuous cycles that benefit all participants. Students gain access to Amazon's expertise and AUD's academic credentials. Amazon gets exposure to emerging talent and strengthens its regional ecosystem. AUD enhances its industry connections and the practical relevance of its curriculum.

Dr. Kyle Long, President of the American University in Dubai, emphasised this mutual benefit: "This MicroMaster reflects AUD's commitment to developing advanced innovation capabilities in the UAE through career-focused and experiential learning. The MicroMaster prepares students to navigate the full innovation lifecycle, from ideation to commercialisation, providing opportunities to work on industry-informed projects, analyse real business scenarios, and apply evidence-based approaches to sustainable business models."

The stackable credit system creates additional value. Upon completion, students receive a joint AUD-Amazon certificate, with credits applicable toward AUD's Master of Science in Innovation Management. This modular approach reduces barriers to advanced education while maintaining academic rigour.

Looking forward: implications for the region

This collaboration signals broader trends in UAE talent development. The region increasingly recognises that traditional academic programs alone cannot keep pace with technological change. Industry-academic partnerships become essential for maintaining a competitive advantage.

The timing aligns with significant entrepreneurial momentum in the region. Recent initiatives, such as the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival's AED 1,000 startup licences and programs supporting 50 Emirati startups, create an ecosystem where graduates can immediately apply their skills.

Looking forward, this suggests we'll see more partnerships between global tech companies and regional universities. The model Amazon and AUD have created—combining industry expertise with academic credentials—provides a template for addressing skills gaps across multiple sectors.

Program details

The MicroMaster program begins in May 2026 and comprises three graduate-level courses delivered through hands-on assessments, industry-informed projects, and guest lectures from Amazon subject-matter experts. Students interested in enrolling can find more information through AUD's official channels, though specific fees and application requirements have not been disclosed.

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