ADU and Pearson partner to train UAE game designers
Abu Dhabi University has partnered with Pearson to strengthen its Bachelor of Arts in Video Game Design programme, as the UAE continues to invest in developing local talent for its growing games industry.
Under the partnership, Pearson will become a preferred academic content and digital learning partner for the programme at Abu Dhabi University’s College of Arts, Education and Social Sciences.
The collaboration will give students access to Pearson’s digital learning content and platforms, alongside opportunities to earn recognised digital credentials, including Pearson Credly badges, through eligible learning activities. Pearson will also provide academic support, subject-matter expertise and educational consultancy.
The agreement extends beyond students, with faculty development workshops, product training and teaching seminars also planned. The two organisations will additionally collaborate on employability initiatives, industry engagement, research and innovation, with AI-enhanced learning and digital education among the areas of focus.
“At ADU, we proactively cultivate strategic partnerships with the public and private sectors to equip our students with future-proof skills that empower them to navigate tomorrow’s job market with confidence,” said Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University.
Aouad said the Pearson collaboration would enhance the university’s Video Game Design programme while supporting the UAE’s wider ambitions to develop its digital economy.
The BA in Video Game Design was established in 2025 in collaboration with French digital arts and game development school Rubika. The four-year programme combines creative and technical game development education, covering areas including level design, game mechanics, narrative design and game production. Students also work with tools and engines including Unity, Unreal Engine and Adobe software.
The programme was originally launched through a partnership involving Abu Dhabi University, Rubika and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, with support from Abu Dhabi Gaming. The initiative forms part of efforts to develop a pipeline of locally based talent for Abu Dhabi’s games and interactive media industries.
As part of the new Pearson agreement, students will also have the opportunity to join the Pearson Campus Ambassador Program, giving selected participants work experience while supporting other students on campus.
Nicolas Abdelmassih, Head of Higher Education for the Gulf and Levant at Pearson Education Limited, said the partnership would combine Pearson’s educational content with digital platforms including MyLab & Mastering and AI tools to provide more personalised and interactive learning experiences.
The partnership comes amid broader efforts across Abu Dhabi and the UAE to expand the domestic games ecosystem and create education-to-industry pathways for aspiring developers.
For Abu Dhabi University, the Pearson deal adds another international education partner to a programme designed to prepare graduates for roles in game studios, startups and adjacent fields including virtual reality, augmented reality and simulation.
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