Why should I register myself or my school for AUSMUN?

With over 18 years of hosting MUN conferences, AUSMUN is one of the largest and most premier Model UNs in the region. Bringing together thousands of delegates over the years, AUSMUN highlights the importance of diplomacy while acting as a transformative gateway for students to discuss relevant geopolitical issues concerning our world today. Beyond refining debating, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, AUSMUN offers a unique social experience. It allows delegates to connect with like-minded students from different schools and backgrounds, building friendships and networks that often extend well beyond the conference itself.

Who is in charge of running the conference?

AUSMUN is one of the largest student-run conferences in the region. It is led, managed, and run by the AUSMUN Executive Board. The Board comprises a Secretary-General, a Deputy Secretary-General, AUS faculty advisors, and five Directors, each overseeing one of the core functional departments:

• External Relations

• Logistics

• Human Resources

• Research

• Media

When is the AUSMUN conference being conducted?

The AUSMUN conference is scheduled to take place from Mar 19, 2027 - Mar 21, 2026 at the American University of Sharjah.

Who can participate in AUSMUN?

AUSMUN welcomes participation from students enrolled in high schools and universities, both locally and internationally. The conference offers a unique platform for students to engage in meaningful dialogue, enhance their public speaking and critical thinking skills, strengthen research and writing abilities, collaborate in diverse teams, and develop a deeper understanding of global affairs and policymaking.

Is there a minimum age requirement to participate in AUSMUN?

Yes, delegates who want to register for AUSMUN must be at least 15 years of age at the time of the conference, meaning that anyone born after Mar 19, 2012, will be ineligible for registering as a delegate. This will be strictly enforced, and no exceptions will be made. Those attempting to circumvent this requirement will be barred from participating in future AUSMUN conferences and related events.

Are there any language requirements for AUSMUN?

English serves as the primary language for conducting all committee sessions. However, specifically in the CSW-AR and AL-AR committees, Arabic is primarily used instead.

What is the theme for this year's conference?

The theme for this year’s conference is - “The Archive and the Agenda: Learning from History to Govern the Future.”

Where can I find the conference schedule?

The conference schedule can be found on the website (ausmun.com) under the tab ‘At the Conference’.

Will delegates receive any preparation materials before the conference?

Yes, delegates will receive a Delegate Handbook (available in both English and Arabic) and Background Guides for their assigned committees via email and on our website. Background Guides are provided in the language of the respective committee.

Are there any networking or social events planned outside of committee sessions?

Of course! AUSMUN goes beyond the committee room to give delegates plenty of chances to connect. On Day 2, delegates can look forward to the Social Night, featuring performances, vendors, and games alongside a relaxed evening to unwind, mingle, and get to know fellow delegates outside the formal debate setting. Day 3 wraps up the conference with the Gala Dinner, an elegant closing celebration honoring delegates' hard work and achievements throughout the conference. Alongside these signature events, coffee breaks on both Day 2 and Day 3 offer additional opportunities to network, exchange ideas, and build connections between sessions.

Can individuals register, or do they need to be part of a delegation?

Individual delegates are welcome to register independently through our official website. However, we strongly encourage participants to register through their respective institutions whenever possible. Institutional registration not only offers reduced fees but also facilitates a more streamlined and efficient registration process.

How many advisors can an institution send with their delegation?

Each participating institution may register one advisor at no additional cost. Local institutions bringing a delegation of more than 25 delegates are required to register a minimum of two advisors, both at no additional cost. International institutions are also required to register a minimum of two advisors, at no additional cost. Additional advisors may be registered by both local and international institutions at a fee of AED 200 per advisor. All advisors must be staff members or teachers officially employed by the institution; students may not serve as advisors. A valid Emirates ID will be required for each registered advisor.

Why should I register as soon as possible?

We strongly encourage all prospective delegates to register at the earliest opportunity in order to take full advantage of the benefits offered:

Priority Seating for the Opening Ceremony: Institutions that register early will receive preferential seating in the main auditorium. Institutions that register later may be seated in alternative areas, and seating arrangements cannot be changed on the day of the conference.

Preferred Committee Assignments: The registration form allows individual delegates to indicate their committee preferences. Early registrants are significantly more likely to receive their top choices.

Reduced Registration Fees: Registration fees are tiered, with lower rates available to those who complete the process early.

Institutional Quotas: Please note that we maintain a limit of 35 delegates we can accept from each institution. Early registration increases your likelihood of securing a place. Any attempt to bypass this quota by registering students as individuals under a different or inaccurate institution name may result in disqualification from AUSMUN.

What is the registration deadline?

Application Period:
Early Delegate Applications

Applies to:
Local Delegates

Price per Delegate for Institutions:
AED 270

Price per Individual Delegate:
AED 285

Deadline:

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Application Period:
Normal Delegate Applications

Applies to:
Local and International Delegates

Price per Delegate for Institutions:
AED 350

Price per Individual Delegate:
AED 360

Deadline:

────────────────────────────

Application Period:
Late Delegate Applications

Applies to:
Local Delegates Only

Price per Delegate for Institutions:
AED 425

Price per Individual Delegate:
AED 425

Deadline:

────────────────────────────

Application Period:
Normal Delegate Applications

Applies to:
International Delegates Only

Price per Delegate
AED 350

Deadline:

What are the payment options available?

There is only one accepted payment method, which is through the official payment link sent to accepted delegates or institutions by the Director of Logistics. No other payment methods, including bank transfers or payment details from previous AUSMUN conferences, should be used. AUSMUN will not be responsible for payments made to an incorrect beneficiary or through unofficial payment channels. If you are unsure about the correct payment method, please contact the Director of Logistics at mun.logisitics@aus.edu.

Can schools request specific committees for their delegates?

No, schools cannot request specific committees for their delegates during the registration process. However, institutions may indicate a preference for Arabic-speaking committees in the registration form. Individual delegates registering independently may request specific committees. Please keep in mind that all committee assignments are subject to availability and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can I transfer my spot to another delegate if I can no longer attend?

Delegate replacements are only allowed until January 31st, 2027 after which registration is finalized. Any replacements made after the deadline are not guaranteed to have the updated delegate name reflected on official certificates, and certificate name-change requests after this date will not be accepted. If you can no longer attend, please withdraw formally through mun.logistics@aus.edu.

Who should I contact if I want to withdraw from the conference/receive a refund?

It is highly encouraged that you register ONLY once you are certain that you will be able to attend the conference. As mentioned in the waiver form in the application process, the withdrawal deadline is on Sunday, January 10th, 2025. Kindly note that no refunds will be processed after the deadline. Please email the Director of Logistics at mun.logistics@aus.edu to process your refund, which may take up to 12 weeks.

Who should I contact if I need to change my registration details (name, email, etc.)?

It is encouraged that you register ONLY once all necessary details are finalized and confirmed. If you need to fix, update, or change anything related to your registration, please be sure to contact the Director of Logistics at mun.logistics@aus.edu before January 31st, 2027. Requests made after that deadline will not be considered and may affect both your participation status and the name reflected on your certificate.

For institutions: In addition to the above, any requests regarding delegate replacements and/or delegates’ final details should also be made before January 31st, 2027.

If I am an international delegate, will flight fares, visas, and accommodation be covered by AUSMUN organizers?

No, flight fares, visas, and accommodations will not be covered by AUSMUN. However, we have secured subsidized packages for our international delegates. For more information on international delegations, please check under the ‘international delegate’ tab on the website. We can also provide you with more tailored support if you kindly reach out to us mun.externalrelations@aus.edu.

Will AUSMUN assist with the visa process?

While AUSMUN does not issue visas, we provide necessary documents (such as invitation letters) upon confirmation of registration and payment. Delegates are responsible for applying through the official UAE visa channels.

What is the closest airport to AUS?

The nearest airport is Sharjah International Airport (about 15 minutes from campus). Dubai International Airport is another major option (about 25–30 minutes away).

How can international students travel from the airport to AUS?

Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Careem, Uber) are widely available from both Sharjah and Dubai airports. For delegates staying in the partnered accommodation provided in the AUSMUN package, a shuttle bus service will be arranged to and from the airport and campus.

What accommodation options are available for international delegates?

AUSMUN offers partnered accommodation through discounted packages that cover living costs during the conference. If you prefer, you are free to arrange your own stay independently.

What documents should international delegates carry to the UAE?

Delegates should have:

A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity)

A UAE entry visa (if applicable)

Is English widely spoken in Sharjah and Dubai?

Yes, English is commonly used in universities, hotels, transportation, and shops, making it easy for international delegates to navigate.

What cultural considerations should international students keep in mind?

The UAE is multicultural but follows local traditions. Delegates should dress modestly in public outside of the conference and be mindful of cultural norms.

Who should international delegates contact in case of travel or arrival issues?

The AUSMUN External Relations team will share emergency contacts to assist with travel, accommodation, or arrival concerns.

How can I become a sponsor for AUSMUN?

We offer exciting sponsorship opportunities for the AUSMUN conference. For more details on the available sponsorship packages and opportunities, please send an email to mun.externalrelations@aus.edu.

What does the vendor fee include?

The vendor fee is AED 500 and includes booth space at the conference venue, access to the vendor exhibition area, the opportunity to showcase products and services, inclusion in conference materials, and the chance to build one's brand.

How early should a vendor/sponsor confirm for the conference?

To ensure smooth onboarding, vendors and sponsors should confirm their participation at least four weeks before March 19th, 2027.

Is power provided for vendors' booths during the conference?

Yes, power will be provided for vendors' booths during the conference. Please let us know in advance if you have any specific power requirements.

How will I get my conference lanyard on the day of the conference?

The conference lanyard will be available to collect at the registration desk on the first day of the conference prior to the Opening Ceremony. These are to be worn at all times while on campus, as they are necessary for easy identification as AUSMUN delegates. This is the same lanyard that will be used for all 3 days of AUSMUN, so be mindful of bringing it with you every day.

If I cannot attend any of the 3 days of the conference, will I still get a certificate of participation/award?

If, due to unforeseen circumstances, you are unable to attend all three days of the conference, we kindly request you to send an email to mun.humanresources@aus.edu, providing a detailed explanation of your situation. Our team will carefully assess your situation and respond accordingly.

Will there be any workshops or training sessions for delegates to improve their skills in Model UN?

Yes, we will be hosting an in-person delegate training workshop where you can meet your chairs and other participating delegates and ask any questions you may have. Delegate resources can be found HERE. More information will be shared with our delegates closer to the workshop date.

What is the dress code for delegates attending AUSMUN?

All participants are required to adhere to a modest and professional dress code in line with the cultural expectations and public decency laws of Sharjah and the United Arab Emirates. The official dress code for AUSMUN is Westernbusiness attire, consistent with standard Model United Nations protocols. Traditional Emirati attire, such as abayas and kandoras, is also permitted and fully respected. Inappropriate attire—regardless of gender—is strictly prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to:

Clothing that is overly tight, transparent, or revealing

Tank tops, crop tops, sleeveless shirts, or outfits exposing the waist, shoulders, chest, or back

Shorts, skirts, or dresses above the knee

Clothing with obscene, offensive, or inappropriate images, logos, or slogans

Participants not in compliance with this policy may be denied entry to conference venues or asked to change attire. Repeated violations may result in dismissal from the conference without a refund.

Can I change my assigned country or committee after receiving it?

Once an allocation (committee & country) is assigned to an individual or an institution by the Director of Logistics, it is final and unchangeable. Requests for committee and country allocation changes will not be considered. If you believe there is an error with your allocation, please contact the Director of Logistics at mun.logistics@aus.edu.

What is the penalty for not submitting a position paper?

Delegates who do not submit a position paper by the stated deadline will be ineligible for the Best Delegate and Best Research awards.

Can I write in first-person pronouns?

No, position papers are written in third person, as if your country is speaking (e.g., “Qatar supports…). Don’t use “I” or “we.”

What if my delegation has nothing to do with the topic?

Pay attention to how your delegation could potentially be indirectly affected, or how it could realistically contribute to a solution. If you’re still stuck, check your country’s stance on similar issues and ask: What would make sense based on its current foreign policy or alliances? Other delegations can be found in the country matrix, which provides a better idea of who your allies are and are not.

How do I make my position paper stand out?

Follow the provided guidelines - that includes formatting, structure, and tone. The key to a strong position paper is the quality of your solutions, which include detail, feasibility, and research, so try to propose realistic and creative solutions. You don’t need to use overly academic language; what matters most is using clear, focused language that shows you understand the topic and how it connects to your assigned country’s interests and/or policies.

Is there a limit to how many citations I can use?

No, but only use citations when they actually support your point. If a claim in your position paper can’t be backed up by a credible source, consider rephrasing or steering in another direction.

What if I don’t understand my topic?

The committee background guide is your best starting resource! Not only does it give you a brief overview, but it also provides many resources to start your research process. From there, dig deeper by watching YouTube explainers, reading short summaries, and checking reliable news sources to get a better understanding.

Can I include quotes?

Yes, but do so sparingly and only if it adds value and context to your argument. Your own analysis and your country’s perspective should be the focus.

Is copying and pasting from sources allowed?

No, you should summarize in your own words and cite any external sources. All content in your paper should reflect your original understanding, copying directly is plagiarism and undermines your credibility.

Do I need to include solutions for both topics, or just one?

Yes, you need to include solutions for each agenda item. Even if your country isn’t directly involved, propose what role it could realistically play.

Do my citations and bibliography count towards the word count?

In most cases, in-text citations (e.g., UNHCR Report, 2021) that appear within the body of the text are included in the word count. However, the bibliography or references list section at the end is not counted toward the total word count.

What if I can’t find my country’s stance on a specific treaty or issue?

Look at how your country voted in similar UN resolutions or see if it's part of a related bloc (e.g., the Non-Aligned Movement or EU). If still unclear, take a cautious and neutral stance while staying aligned with your nation’s general foreign policy.

What if I miss the position paper deadline?

Late submissions may be ineligible for the position paper competition or delegate awards. If you encounter any issues with your submission, contact the Director of Research (mun.research@aus.edu) immediately to clarify the situation.

Can I include country flags, images, or logos in my position paper?

No. Position papers should be text-only documents in formal, academic style. Decorative elements are discouraged unless your committee explicitly allows them.

Should I write both topics with equal length and detail?

Ideally yes, but if your country is much more involved in one topic than the other, it's okay to have some imbalance. However, be sure to address both topics meaningfully.

Is Wikipedia allowed as a source?

No, it’s not a credible academic source. However, it can be helpful for background understanding and for finding linked citations at the bottom of the page.

Can I use AI (ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, etc.) during AUSMUN?

When it comes to the use of generative AI, AUSMUN is guided by its AI Policy, which was created to guide delegates on how to harness the benefits of AI, while not compromising the core human values of AUSMUN. For any questions or concerns regarding the AI Policy, please contact the AUSMUN Executive Board’s Director of Research at mun.research@aus.edu.

Can I include rhetorical questions in my paper?

It’s better not to. Position papers should be formal and assertive. Replace rhetorical questions with statements of concern or a suggested action for your topic.

Can I update my paper after submitting it if I made a mistake?

That depends on your committee. Some allow revised submissions before the deadline. If you need to make a change, contact your Chair or the Director of Research (mun.research@aus.edu) right away.

What file type should I submit my paper in?

Unless told otherwise, PDF is best. It preserves formatting across all devices. Word documents may sometimes shift formatting when opened on different systems or softwares.

Can I use block quotes if the original quote is long?

Avoid long block quotes. Summarize or paraphrase the information instead to focus on your analysis and voice, rather than the copied material.

Do AI detection tools (like ZeroGPT) sometimes produce false positives? What happens if I get flagged?

Yes, false positives are possible. If flagged, the Research team may review your paper or call you in for clarification, but it doesn’t automatically mean you’re disqualified.

Can I submit a paper for just one topic if I don’t understand the second one?

No. Both topics must be covered in order to meet the minimum requirements, even if briefly. The minimum word count for a position paper is 400 words, so aim to fulfil that requirement.

What if I can’t find recent statistics or updates about the issue?

Use the most recent credible source available, and if it’s outdated, explain that it’s the latest data found. Then offer ideas based on trends or official statements.

Can I include bullet points or lists in my position paper?

Your paper should be in full paragraph form. Bullet points make it look less formal and might lower your score.

What if different websites say different things? How do I know which to trust?

Prioritize official government, UN, international organization reports, academic research, or reputable news sources. If the information conflicts, go with the one that is more recent or cited by other credible sources.

Can I bring props/toys to the conference?

No. AUSMUN strictly prohibits the unauthorized use of any props, toys, or even audio/visual media during committee sessions. Delegates are expected to abide by this rule and all other rules outlined in the AUSMUN Code of Conduct.

Will I be photographed or filmed during the conference?

Yes, AUSMUN is a highly documented event. Our official Media Team will be taking photos and videos throughout the conference, including committee sessions, ceremonies, and social events. If you are uncomfortable being featured, please inform a member of the Media Team at the registration desk on Day 1.

Where will AUSMUN content be published?

Photos and videos will be shared on our official AUSMUN social media platforms (Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, etc.) and may be used for future promotional materials. Highlights will also be included in our post-conference documentary.

Can I access photos or videos I appear in?

Yes. Selected photos will be uploaded to a public Google Drive folder linked through our website and Instagram after the conference. Video recaps will also be posted on our official platforms. Please allow 2–3 weeks for processing and editing.

What if I want to request a photo to be taken down?

We respect your privacy. If you appear in a photo or video and would like it removed, please email the Director of Media at mun.media@aus.edu with a screenshot and a brief explanation.

Can I submit my own content to be featured?

Yes! Delegates are encouraged to tag @aus_modelun on Instagram or email us their photos and videos. Outstanding content may be reshared on our official platforms (with credit, of course).

Will there be interviews or video features during the conference?

Yes. Our team will conduct short delegate interviews, behind-the-scenes features, and Vox Pop segments during the event. Participation is entirely voluntary and fun!

Is there a media consent form?

Yes, all participants agree to AUSMUN’s Media Consent Clause upon registration. This outlines how media is captured, stored, and shared. If you have concerns, please contact us in advance.

Can I request a personal interview or spotlight feature?

Spotlight features are limited and typically pre-arranged. However, feel free to approach the Media Team during the conference or email your request to mun.media@aus.edu for consideration.

How can I give feedback or report an incident after the conference?

To provide feedback or report an incident after the conference, you can simply scan the QR code on the back of your lanyard to be directed to a form that you can fill out anonymously. The link will also be sent to you via email as well.

Who do I contact if there’s a spelling mistake/grammatical error on my badge/certificate of participation?

Kindly send an email to externalrelations@ausmun.com, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.