Sharjah, UAE., July7, 2024 – American University of Sharjah (AUS) and the Federal Tax Authority in the UAE signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) fostering deeper cooperation and synergy between the two entities.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, and H.E. Khalid Ali Al Bustani, Director General of the Federal Tax Authority in the UAE, on July 3 on the AUS campus. 

The MoU outlines a structured framework for a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing joint efforts in key areas of mutual interest such as executive education and professional advancement, curricular development, training opportunities, and education and community outreach.

Under this agreement, AUS will provide specialized professional certificates and training courses in Corporate Tax, Value Added Tax (VAT) and Excise Tax for UAE specialists and tax agents. It will also develop its undergraduate and postgraduate programs’ curricula, integrating content on VAT, Corporate Tax and Business Tax. As part of the agreement, the Federal Tax Authority will facilitate specialists to conduct lectures and workshops on VAT, Corporate Tax and Business Tax at the AUS campus, as well as promote practical training and job opportunities for students and graduates.

'We are delighted to formalize this strategic partnership with the Federal Tax Authority. It is in line with our efforts to advance education and professional development in crucial areas such as taxation. By integrating specialized courses into our curriculum and fostering joint research initiatives, we aim to equip our students and stakeholders with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this dynamic field. This collaboration strengthens our academic offerings and enhances our contribution to the broader community and economy of the UAE,” said Chancellor Laursen.

H.E. Khaled Ali Al Bustani also said: “Our collaboration with AUS aligns with our commitment to expanding our partnership network throughout the United Arab Emirates. Together, we aim to bolster tax awareness across all societal sectors, ensure taxpayer compliance and introduce pioneering projects in the tax sector. As part of our mandate at the Federal Tax Authority, we are dedicated to educating stakeholders and the public on tax matters, collaborating with leading educational institutions to achieve these objectives.”

Through its School of Business Administration, AUS offers robust courses in accounting, business administration, law, economics and finance. Its programs empower students with practical insights and prepare them for impactful careers in taxation and related fields.