The 2018 ZU graduation ceremonies were held under "The Year of Zayed" theme, as many pictures of the late founder of the UAE were placed around all corners of the hall. Students have also considered a space dedicated to his legacy in their graduation speeches.

H.E Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi handed the graduation certificates to 1526 students, including 1363 students who graduated from the seven Colleges of the university:

Education, Technological Innovation, Business, Communication & Media Sciences, Humanities & Social Sciences, Arts & Creative Enterprises, and the Faculty of Natural & Health Sciences. She also honoured 163 male students for completing university bachelor's requirements. She also honoured 105 master's degree students, of which 64 female graduates and 41 male graduates.