Ajman University hosts ‘Research Day’ event

As part of the 8th edition of Research Day at Ajman University, students have submitted their research papers reinforcing its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and national development.

The event was held at Ajman Saray Hotel and was attended by faculty members, undergraduate and postgraduate students, and distinguished representatives from government and private sectors to explore how applied research can support the UAE’s long-term strategic ambitions.

During the day-long event, participants showcased interdisciplinary student research projects addressing real-world challenges in areas such as urban planning, public health, technology, design, and behavioral science.

This year’s edition served as a dynamic platform for bridging academia with national priorities, inspiring young researchers to contribute solutions to regional and global challenges.

Among the many impactful contributions, students from the College of Engineering and IT explored sustainable freshwater collection systems through condensation technologies. From the College of Architecture, Art, and Design, one project examined how walkable urban design can enhance livability, while another proposed sensory-friendly spaces for children with autism. Marketing and management students analysed green consumer behavior in the UAE, while projects from the College of Law addressed privacy rights and legal frameworks in digital environments.

Talking to Gulf Today participant students shared their vision.

Zahra Hazzaa Alabdouli, graduate in Mechanical Engineering said “My project is about collecting fresh water that naturally forms on glass surfaces through condensation.

It’s a simple, eco-friendly way to harvest water—especially useful in humid places like the UAE.

The system can be used on various glass surfaces such as windows, solar panels, and greenhouses.

In addition to collecting water, it also helps remove dust from the surface, which means it can help maintain the efficiency of solar panels over time and reduce the need for frequent window cleaning.”

Kareen Kazaz, Collage of Architecture, Art and Design and MSc in Urban Design paper titled “Assessing Urban Design Factors for Walkable Area using Ewing and Handy’s walkability factors: evidence from Dubai.”

Highlighting the details, she said, “My research is about understanding what urban design factors affect walkability of low rise outdoor areas in Dubai. I selected three areas in Dubai (City Walk, Al Seef, and Box Park) and conducted an opinion questionnaire and a built environment analysis using a methodology derived from Ewing and Handy’s framework that assesses walkability based on five urban design factors.”

“Our aim was to explain why some areas are more walkable than others and what are the relevant factors that pedestrians take into consideration when walking in these areas.”

She further pointed that “I chose this topic is because we are seeing how Dubai and the UAE is aiming to become more pedestrian friendly and it’s important to understand which factors in an urban design context affects walkability. “I had great support from my supervisor Dr. Arar and of course my family. Especially my husband Jihad Chaouk who was always by my side. Ajman university provided me with great access to research resources and the helpful guidance of my supervisor Dr.Arar.

“My research is being published with the help of my supervise Dr. Arar and in my research I have made some recommendations about how these urban design factors can help to improve with designing an urban low rise area,” she added.

Sima Ahmad, graduate from Architecture Department said, “My graduation project is a transportation hub that connects various modes of transit including the Dubai Rail, Etihad Metro, bus station, and taxi stands. The goal is to make movement between the seven emirates easier and reduce traffic congestion,” she added. Responding a question, she mentioned, “The design is inspired by fluidity and movement, aiming to reflect the smooth and seamless flow of people and transportation throughout the hub. The project is located in Dubai South a strategic area that includes major landmarks like Al Maktoum International Airport, Dubai Expo, and the Jebel Ali industrial area.”