Six scholars from Canadian University Dubai recognised among the world’s most influential scientists

Researchers at the Dubai institution have been named in the prestigious Stanford–Elsevier list for their contributions to artificial intelligence, business, energy and medicine, reflecting the university's growing international standing.

Six scholars from Canadian University Dubai have been recognised in the 2026 Stanford–Elsevier World’s Top 2% Scientists list, an honour that reflects the institution’s deepening commitment to rigorous research and intellectual advancement. The recognition encompasses work across artificial intelligence, business, management, energy and medicine, disciplines in which these researchers have made measurable contributions to their fields.

Dr. Firuz Kamalov’s research explores artificial intelligence and machine learning, with particular focus on image processing. His portfolio includes more than 150 published papers and approximately AED9 million in secured research funding. A Dubai Future Foundation funded project under his direction examines dementia detection through explainable AI, bridging technological innovation with clinical application. Dr. Mohammadnoor Injadat has appeared on the list for the fourth consecutive year, his work in machine learning and intelligent systems having garnered nearly 3,000 citations on Google Scholar, demonstrating the reach and resonance of his research within the academic community.

In the sphere of business and management, Dr. Jamid Ul Islam’s contributions focus on marketing, consumer behaviour, customer engagement and digital business, whilst Dr. Syed Zamberi Ahmad Bin Ahmad examines business growth strategies, innovation and entrepreneurship. Dr. Ahmad’s work incorporates artificial intelligence and big data analysis to strengthen organisational competitiveness, reflecting the contemporary integration of technology into business research. As we reported in our coverage of Emirati AI leaders engaging with Canada’s foremost research institutions, such collaborative scholarly endeavours between the Emirates and Canada increasingly shape the region’s intellectual landscape.

Dr. Ikhlaas Gurrib’s research into global financial market dynamics encompasses asset pricing, portfolio management and volatility forecasting, with particular attention to the interconnectedness of energy markets and other asset classes. Dr. Malcolm Price brings distinction in general and internal medicine, having published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles in journals of considerable standing, including Nature Medicine and The Lancet Infectious Diseases. His scholarly contributions extend to fifteen externally funded research projects and advisory work undertaken with the World Health Organisation.

The Stanford–Elsevier evaluation employs a comprehensive citation database, assessing researchers’ scientific impact through six key indicators drawn from analysis of publications and citation data. This year’s recognition follows the earlier inclusion of Dr. Ahmad and Dr. Islam in the SciRank Global Scientific Index and Scientist Ranking 2026, where they were positioned among the world’s top five percent of scientists. Canadian University Dubai also ranked eighth worldwide for International Faculty Ratio in the QS World University Rankings 2027, underscoring the institution’s success in attracting scholarly talent from across the globe.

What it means for Abu Dhabi

This recognition affirms Abu Dhabi’s position as a centre of scholarly excellence and research innovation. The inclusion of six researchers from a single institution in this prestigious international list demonstrates the calibre of intellectual work taking place within the Emirate, particularly in fields aligned with the UAE’s strategic priorities in artificial intelligence, healthcare advancement and economic diversification. The concentration of their expertise across these disciplines signals the depth of academic resources available within the region.

The achievement also reflects the broader engagement between the UAE and international academic communities, particularly with Canada, where knowledge exchange continues to deepen institutional capacity and research output. Such recognition enhances Abu Dhabi’s standing as a destination for serious scholarly work and attracts further talent and investment in research infrastructure.

Source: WAM