Marwan Al-Akaidi

Professor Marwan Al-Akaidi is a distinguished leader in Computer Science and Engineering with a transformative impact on academic and research institutions across Europe and the Middle East. With an educational foundation in Electrical and Electronic Engineering (BSc, MSc, and PhD) from the UK, he holds esteemed professional accreditations including Chartered Engineer (CEng), Chartered IT Professional (CITP), and Fellowships with the IET, BCS, and IAP. 

Throughout his career, Professor Al-Akaidi has held influential leadership roles, fostering institutional innovation and spearheading pioneering academic programs. As the Head of a major School of Engineering & Technology in the UK, he established renowned media and creative technology programs in partnership with the BBC, enhancing the institution’s leadership in media technology. His tenure as Vice President of Academic Affairs at a regional open university saw significant expansion of fully accredited programs across MENA, alongside the launch of international academic journals, MOOCs, and blended learning initiatives. In Dubai, he served as Vice President for Research and Dean of a College of Computer & Information Technology, where he founded a Blockchain Centre in collaboration with Dubai Blockchain and hosted high-profile international conferences, positioning the university as a leader in blockchain and emerging technologies.

Key Achievements 

– Institutional Innovation: 

  •   Developed media studios and creative technology programs in partnership with major broadcasters.
  •   Launched regionally accredited programs, MOOCs, and blended learning models, along with two international journals.
  •   Founded a Blockchain Centre and led numerous global events, cementing the institution’s status in emerging technologies.

– Strategic Collaborations: 

  •   Established over 50 international partnerships with leading corporations, such as Rolls Royce, BT, France Telecom, Toyota, and Nokia, enriching academic offerings and providing industry-linked opportunities for students and faculty.

– Student and Educational Development: 

  •   Led a significant student retention initiative, pioneered e-learning in the MENA region, and maintained a mentorship-focused leadership style.
  •   Supervised 45 MPhil/PhD students and over 100 MSc students, many of whom have gone on to distinguished careers worldwide.

– Academic Contributions: 

  •   Authored over 300 publications, chaired and edited numerous international conferences, and delivered keynote addresses at over 50 global events. 
  •   Actively contributes to quality assurance as a QAA (UK) auditor and serves on accreditation panels for professional bodies such as IET and BCS.

Professional Affiliations and Leadership 

  • General Chair of the MESM conferences 
  • Co-founder of Eurosis 
  • Chief Editor for IoT at Frontiers Journal, and other 6 international Journals.

Professional Philosophy 

Professor Al-Akaidi is renowned for his dedication to fostering critical thinking, adaptability, and a collaborative culture within academia. His leadership continues to shape academic excellence and innovative practices in every institution he serves.