Kevin Hall Appointed CEO of Zayed University in Dubai

Former president of the University of Victoria, Kevin Hall, has been appointed as the new CEO and president of Zayed University, which operates campuses in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The announcement was made on October 7, 2025, with Hall set to officially take on the role on November 1, 2025. This appointment comes after Hall’s unexpected resignation from UVic in July 2025, where he had been preparing to begin his second term.

Hall’s tenure at UVic began in August 2020, and he was re-elected for a second term in April 2025. However, he stepped down on July 31, 2025, just one day before his planned return to the position. In a statement released at that time, Hall expressed his unwavering confidence in the future of UVic, despite his departure.

Zayed University expressed enthusiasm about Hall’s appointment, portraying him as an “accomplished academic leader.” The university highlighted his previous leadership experience at UVic, one of Canada’s top public research institutions, and his role at the University of Newcastle in Australia as Vice President and Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor.

Hall’s Vision for Zayed University

In his first remarks as the incoming president and CEO, Hall expressed his honor in taking this new position. He emphasized Zayed University’s “bold vision” for the future and his commitment to enhancing the institution’s academic and research capabilities. “I look forward to working closely with the Board, management, faculty, students, and the broader ZU community to further enhance our academic and research capabilities while continuing to support the success and aspirations of our students,” he stated.

In conjunction with Hall’s appointment, Dr. Muna Abdelhakim Al Seeni was appointed as the university’s Chief Strategy Officer. Shamma bint Sohail Al Mazrui, chair of Zayed University’s board of trustees, remarked that these appointments represent a significant moment for the institution. She highlighted Hall’s strong record in academic leadership and Al Seeni’s potential as a leader driving strategic innovation in higher education.

Challenges Faced During Tenure at UVic

During Hall’s leadership at UVic, the university faced several challenges, including the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and changes to international student permits in Canada. His presidency also coincided with tragic events, such as the overdose death of a first-year student in 2024, which led to a province-wide review of drug policies at post-secondary institutions and resulted in ten recommendations aimed at improving safety and support systems.

Additionally, Hall’s time at UVic was marked by significant student activism, including a months-long protest encampment in support of Palestine. These experiences have shaped his understanding of the complexities within higher education and the importance of community engagement.

As Hall prepares for his new role at Zayed University, his extensive background in academic leadership and commitment to fostering educational excellence will be key as the university continues its journey towards enhancing research and international collaboration.