Student Activities
Policy
DSS provides undergraduate and graduate students with innovative extracurricular programs and opportunities to form clubs and organizations that promote health, wellness, leadership, ethics, and values, and prepares them for their responsibilities as progressive and engaged global citizens. The DSS also recognizes those who show extraordinary commitment and dedication through their outstanding academic performance and through their volunteerism and exemplary leadership roles in various activities, programs and events.
Some of the programs organized/supported by the DSS include the following:
1. Orientation
At the beginning of each semester/term, the DSS organizes a 3-week orientation program for students. Orientation aims to provide a smooth and successful start for new UD students by creating activities and sessions to welcome and help them familiarize with the university’s faculty, staff, departments, services and facilities. Activities include a campus tour, presentations and even games and surprises.
2. Medical Condition Disclosure
Students are required to inform the relevant DSS staff of any medical condition (such as diabetes, epilepsy, allergies, etc.) that may affect their safety or participation in university activities. This disclosure must be made before participating in any event, whether on or off campus. This measure ensures that appropriate support can be provided if needed and that the university is covered in case of emergencies.
3. Social and Cultural Programs
DSS organizes social and cultural events to further its goal of promoting relations between UD and the community. DSS conducts vibrant and extensive social and cultural programs that ensure the students’ participation, thereby enhancing ones’ understanding and appreciation of the various cultures and social impact to the community.
4. Sports and Recreational Programs
To promote sportsmanship, camaraderie and a healthy lifestyle, intramural activities are organized by the DSS in a friendly yet competitive environment. Tournaments are held for sports activities such as football, basketball, bowling, billiards and foosball. UD sports clubs compete against higher education institutions as part of the Higher Education Sports Federation, which consists of colleges and universities in Dubai and other Emirates in the UAE.
5. Students Union
The University of Dubai’s Student Union (UDSU) was established to develop a sense of belonging, foster an independent, proactive and responsible student body, and to provide a range of social, cultural, sporting and recreational activities in which students can participate. The UDSU election is held at the end of the academic year (April/May). UDSU acts as a link between students and top management. See Appendix I for Student Union Bylaws and Appendix II for Student Union Constitution.
6. Students Organizations/Clubs
Student organizations/clubs are an integral part of the learning process at UD as they allow students to pursue personal interests and hobbies outside the classroom, learn leadership skills by handling responsibilities and meet/interact with other people. Clubs cover a wide range of activities like sports, music and recreation, as well as cultural and social interests. DSS provides all the needed guidance to organize and register your group and identify appropriate faculty advisors. As a recognized student organization, the club will have access to funds generated from activity fees. The Emirati group, sustainability group are examples of the active student organizations. If you do not see a group that meets your interest, you can simply start your own in consultation with the DSS. See Appendix III for Student Organization Bylaws and Appendix IV for Student Organization Constitution.
7. Volunteer / Outreach Programs
UD provides opportunities for UD students to participate in several volunteer programs and events that promote a positive impact on the community, and improve the quality of life for others. These programs also help raise awareness and promote learning from a different perspective.
8. Events
DSS in collaboration with the UDSU and other UD groups organize a variety of activities throughout the year with the objective of breaking down barriers between cultures and celebrate diversity in different ways. These events provide students with the opportunity to meet other members of the UD community, learn something new, and at the same time have fun. Some of the events organized annually include:
9.Health and Wellbeing Activities
DSS is committed to supporting students’ overall wellbeing by organizing health-focused activities throughout the academic year. These include wellness workshops, stress management sessions during exams, fitness challenges, and awareness campaigns on topics such as mental health, nutrition, and healthy lifestyles. In collaboration with health professionals and local organizations, DSS also facilitates free health check-ups and promotes access to counseling services, aiming to create a supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.
10. Academic Events and Competitions
DSS encourages students to actively participate in academic competitions, conferences, and skill-building workshops at the local, regional, and international levels. These opportunities help students develop their knowledge, enhance their communication and leadership skills, and represent the University of Dubai in diverse fields such as business, innovation, technology, sustainability, and the arts. DSS provides guidance, logistical support, and funding—when applicable—to ensure students are well-prepared and able to make the most of these enriching experiences.
11. Awards Programs
In recognition of the students’ outstanding academic achievement and support to UD’s various events and activities, the DSS, in collaboration with UD Colleges hold the following awards programs throughout the academic year:
Honor Student Awards:
Every year, the Honor Student event is organized by the colleges to recognize the high academic performance of undergraduate students with GPA of at least 3.6
B. DSS Award Ceremony
DSS Award Ceremony is a yearly event where the most active students are recognized and honored for their achievements, contributions, or excellence in events linked to the DSS during the previous Fall and Spring semesters. The event is organized at the end of the Spring Semester in the presence of the President of the University, along with other Top Management.
During the Award Ceremony, DSS awards are given for the following categories:
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Best Club of the Year
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Presidential Medal for Student Leadership
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Trophy of High Achievement
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UD Ambassador Award
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Outstanding Athlete Award
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Student Entrepreneur Award
To learn more about the DSS Award Ceremony and how to be eligible for the award, visit the University of Dubai website.