AEIC/AUD Mentors Drive Innovation at Majlis Al Mustaqbal 2026

American University in Dubai and AEIC/AUD recently showcased its commitment to the startup ecosystem as AEIC/AUD Interim Director Dr. Maya Abou Zahr, PhD and representatives from the AUD Business School —Dr. Farah Arkadan, Dr. Lena Kurban Rouhana ,DBA , Dr. Racha Abdrabbo Haffar, and Dr. Gesualda Iodice—served as mentors at the Majlis Al Mustaqbal event. Organized by Dubai SME from April 28–30 at The Campus, Dubai Founders HQ, this three-day innovation journey led participants through the critical stages of challenge exploration, prototyping, and investor pitching. The AEIC and AUD delegation extended their sincere gratitude to Mr. Abdelaziz Almaazmi, Dr Essam Disi, and the Dubai SME team (Ms. Sharifa Miran, Ms. Hanan Khaldi, and Ms. Muna Saleh Al Marzooqi ) for the invitation, as well as to AUD leadership—Dr. Kyle Long, Dr. ASSAAD FARAH, and Dr. Vinod Pangracious Ph.D Pangracious—for their unwavering support.

During the event, the mentorship team employed a hands-on approach to bridge the gap between abstract concepts and viable business ventures. By engaging in both group discussions and intensive one-on-one sessions, the mentors provided specialized expertise in strategic business modelling, value proposition design, and early-stage feasibility. This guidance was designed to help teams navigate the complexities of strategic positioning while fostering the critical thinking necessary for long-term scalability. The impact of this collaboration was evident in the marked progression of the participants' pitch readiness. Under the guidance of the mentors, teams significantly enhanced their ability to articulate competitive advantages and present coherent, investor-ready models. Beyond providing feedback, the representatives played a key role in evaluating the final concepts for the concluding recognition by the judges and awards ceremony.