Global Leaders Unite at AUS for Sustainable Finance Conference

The American University of Sharjah (AUS) was pivotal in the ongoing dialogue on sustainable finance, welcoming over 60 global experts at the Sustainable Finance Innovation Conference (SFIC) from October 30 to November 2, 2025. This influential gathering advanced research, policy developments, and market strategies while introducing significant international partnerships.

Organized by the AUS School of Business Administration (SBA), in collaboration with the University of Birmingham’s Institute for Sustainability and Climate Action, as well as the Sustainable Financial Innovation Centre, University of Birmingham Dubai, and the UAE–UK Business Council, the conference delved into key priorities for sustainable finance and resilient financial systems moving forward.

The event commenced with opening remarks from Dr. Narjess Boubakri, Dean of SBA, and Professor Hisham Farag, Director of the Sustainable Financial Innovation Centre, followed by welcome addresses from Dr. Tod A. Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, and Dr. Yusra Mouzughi, Provost of the University of Birmingham Dubai. Dr. Boubakri shared, “SFIC embodies AUS’ dedication to influencing the global finance dialogue. As sustainability evolves into a key economic factor, we aim to cultivate leaders capable of navigating complexities, innovating responsibly, and building resilient financial frameworks.”

A keynote address from Dr. William L. Megginson of the University of Oklahoma discussed the financial economics of spaceflight, focusing on how emerging technologies interact with long-term investment strategies, risk management, and sustainability. The program included both plenary sessions and parallel discussions showcasing groundbreaking research on climate-related financial risks, bank resilience, ESG performance, green innovations in emerging markets, ESG rating dynamics, and the incorporation of AI, machine learning, and FinTech in promoting sustainable finance and financial inclusivity.

A panel discussion on investment in carbon capture and storage, led by Bradley Jones, Executive Director of the UAE–UK Business Council, featured insights from industry experts like Rohit Balakrishnan, Dharmesh Kumar, and Ricardo and Beena Sharma. The Rt Hon. The Lord Udny-Lister’s address highlighted collaboration opportunities between the UAE and UK in sustainable investments.

A landmark achievement of SFIC 2025 was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between AUS and the University of Birmingham, UK. This MoU sets the stage for collaborative research, co-authored publications, responsible data sharing, faculty and student exchanges, workshops, hackathons, business incubation, internships, guest lectures, and joint applications for research funding in the UAE and UK.

Dr. Osamah AlKhazali, Head of the Department of Finance, remarked, “The MoU lays out a practical plan for impactful cooperation. By aligning our research focuses and creating effective collaboration paths, we are establishing a foundation for projects that will support the UAE’s aspirations in sustainable financial advancements.”

Dr. Yusra Mouzughi added, “This collaboration highlights our mutual commitment to excellence and innovation in academia. Together, we'll enhance industry participation, research partnerships, and practical learning experiences for students, preparing them for leadership roles in the changing finance and technology landscape.”

The AUS Department of Finance provides an extensive array of academic programs, including undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral options, designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in finance and sustainable investment.