Latest news with #WafiDawood
Arabian Post
06-07-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Dubai Welcomes Three Prestigious Universities Ahead of 2025–26 Term
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority has confirmed that three esteemed international institutions—the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad, the American University of Beirut, and Saudi Arabia's Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences—will launch branch campuses in the emirate for the 2025–26 academic year. This move aligns with Dubai's strategic Education 33 and broader Dubai Economic Agenda D33, designed to enhance its status as a global education hub. The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad is renowned for its Business and Management programme, currently ranked 27th globally by the QS World University Rankings by subject. The American University of Beirut holds a position of 237th in the overall QS World University Rankings. Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences brings specialised strength in health and medical education to Dubai's portfolio. ADVERTISEMENT Dr Wafi Dawood, CEO of KHDA's Strategic Development Sector, emphasised that the initiative 'reflects the emirate's international stature' and aligns with goals to enhance graduate competitiveness, boost educational tourism ten-fold by 2033, broaden Emirati workforce integration, and bolster economic diversification. The strategy also aims to see international students making up 50 per cent of Dubai's higher education population by 2033, contributing an estimated AED 5.6 billion to the sector's GDP. Dubai's higher education ecosystem already includes 41 private international providers—37 of which are branch campuses—including the University of Manchester Dubai and University of Birmingham Dubai, whose home institutions rank 35th and 76th respectively in QS 2026. Curtin University Dubai and University of Wollongong in Dubai also feature within the top 200 global rankings. The emirate recorded a 20 per cent rise in total private university enrolment for 2024–25, with international students growing by 29 per cent to reach over 42,000 across more than 700 programmes. This marks the highest student population to date in Dubai's sector. A broader pipeline is in place, with several other globally ranked institutions currently in advanced discussions with KHDA to establish Dubai campuses. The initiative supports Dubai's ambition to position itself among the world's top ten cities for university education by 2033. Dubai International Academic City, the emirate's dedicated higher education zone, accommodates around 27,500 students across 27 colleges and three innovation centres, offering over 500 programmes. Many of the new branch campuses are expected to be located within DIAC or Dubai Knowledge Park, reinforcing the emirate's capacity for transnational education. Amid growing demand, student housing projects have expanded to meet the needs of a diverse population representing more than 150 nationalities. Dubai's education authorities have also prioritised research collaboration and academic innovation through cross-border partnerships, consistent with KHDA's quality framework.
Time Out Dubai
02-07-2025
- Business
- Time Out Dubai
University in Dubai: 3 new international campuses coming to the UAE
Dubai has added three top international universities to its higher education offering in time for the next academic year. The Knowledge and Human Development Authority has revealed that the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad from India, the American University of Beirut and Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences will all open Dubai campuses for the 2025/26 academic year. With vibrant nightlife, amazing weather and some of the world's top universities hosting campuses in the emirate, Dubai has everything a student could possibly want. Dubai currently has 41 international higher education providers, 37 of which are international brand campuses, which offer a diverse range of academic programmes to meet the needs of learners. The IIM Ahmedabad's business and management programme is ranked 27th in the global QS World University Rankings by subject, while the American University of Beirut ranks 237th overall. Prestigious universities such as The University of Manchester, University of Birmingham and Curtin University all have international branches based in Dubai. The city aims to become one of the world's top 10 global cities, with plans in place to have international students comprise 50 percent of the total number of students in higher education by 2033. Three new international universities are set to open campuses in Dubai during the 2025-26 academic year, Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) said. The universities confirmed to begin operations include the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad from… — Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) July 2, 2025 Higher education institutions saw a record 20 percent increase in overall student enrolment and a 29 percent increase in international student enrolment in the last academic year. A total of 42,026 students are now enrolled at 41 private higher education institutions in Dubai – the highest number to date. You may like: Everything you need to know about the UAE student visa Dr. Wafi Dawood, CEO of the Strategic Development Sector at KHDA expanded on the aims of the Education 33 strategy. He said: 'This initiative aligns with the social and economic goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, and the Education 33 Strategy, which represents a transformative vision for Dubai's education system. 'Our aim is to enhance the global competitiveness of Dubai's graduates, increase educational tourism tenfold by 2033, integrate a new generation of Emiratis into the workforce and future sectors, and contribute to doubling Dubai's economy over the next decade, positioning the city among the world's top three economic hubs.' In other Dubai news Dubai Summer Surprises 2025 official dates revealed Big sales, fun concerts and so much more 14 cool things you can do in Dubai for 10 Dirhams (or less) Low on dirhams? No problem How to get 30% off taxi fares in Dubai Available in over 6,000 cabs
Time of India
02-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Dubai to welcome IIM Ahmedabad and two top-ranked global universities in 2025-26
New university campuses will bolster Dubai's reputation as a global education hub by 2026./ image : IIM Ahmedabad, official Dubai is set to strengthen its position as a global education hub by welcoming three internationally renowned universities for the 2025-26 academic year. The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad) from India, the American University of Beirut (AUB) from Lebanon, and Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences from Saudi Arabia will all establish campuses in the emirate, marking a significant expansion of Dubai's higher education landscape. New Campuses to Elevate Dubai's Global Education Status The Dubai Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) confirmed the upcoming arrival of these three institutions. IIM Ahmedabad is highly respected worldwide, with its Business and Management programme currently ranked 27th globally in the QS World University Rankings by subject. Meanwhile, the American University of Beirut holds a respectable 237th position in the overall global QS rankings. The entry of Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences adds to Dubai's growing diversity in specialized education fields. Expanding Dubai's Vision for Higher Education Dr Wafi Dawood, CEO of the Strategic Development Sector at KHDA, highlighted the significance of this development in an interview with a local news outlet KT, saying, 'Dubai's initiative to attract the best global universities, endorsed by The Executive Council, reflects the emirate's international stature. Dubai's visionary leaders have ensured all the resources necessary to position the emirate as a global leader and a top destination for students and prestigious international higher education institutions. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo ' He further explained the alignment with Dubai's broader goals: 'This initiative aligns with the social and economic goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, and the Education 33 Strategy, which represents a transformative vision for Dubai's education system. Our aim is to enhance the global competitiveness of Dubai's graduates, increase educational tourism tenfold by 2033, integrate a new generation of Emiratis into the workforce and future sectors, and contribute to doubling Dubai's economy over the next decade, positioning the city among the world's top three economic hubs. ' Dubai's Growing Higher Education Ecosystem Currently, Dubai hosts 41 private international higher education providers, with 37 being branch campuses of globally recognized universities. Notably, campuses such as the University of Manchester Dubai and the University of Birmingham Dubai benefit from their parent campuses' global standing, ranked 35th and 76th respectively in the QS World University Rankings 2026. Other notable institutions include Curtin University Dubai and the University of Wollongong in Dubai, ranked 183rd and 184th respectively. Three additional universities with Dubai campuses are also ranked within the top 300 globally. In the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject, several Dubai-based institutions have been recognized among the world's best in Business and Management: London Business School is ranked 7th ESCP is at 54th Luiss University holds the 67th spot Additionally, Instituto Marangoni, a leading institute in design education, ranks between 51st and 100th globally for Art and Design. Ambitious Targets for International Student Growth This university expansion is part of Dubai's broader global university attraction project, embedded within the Education 33 strategy. The initiative aims to build a robust academic ecosystem by blending international and local education, investing in scientific research, and encouraging cross-border collaborations. A key target is for international students to make up 50% of Dubai's higher education population by 2033. This would contribute approximately Dh 5.6 billion($1.524 billion USD) to the education sector's GDP. Already, Dubai is witnessing this growth. For the 2024-25 academic year, total enrolment at private universities increased by 20%, with international student numbers growing by 29%. Currently, 42,026 students are enrolled across 41 private universities offering over 700 academic programmes designed to equip learners with future-ready skills aligned with Dubai's strategic vision.
Hi Dubai
02-07-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Attracts Three Global Universities to Open Campuses in 2025
Three internationally renowned universities will open campuses in Dubai for the 2025–26 academic year, marking a major step in the emirate's push to become a global education hub, according to Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). Joining Dubai's growing higher education ecosystem are the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad, the American University of Beirut, and Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences from Saudi Arabia. These institutions bring globally ranked programmes in business, management, and medical sciences to a city that already hosts 41 international education providers. The initiative is part of the Education 33 Strategy, aligned with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the city's economy and significantly boost educational tourism by 2033. Authorities also plan for international students to make up 50% of the student population and contribute AED5.6 billion to GDP. 'There is a clear vision to make Dubai a leading destination for prestigious universities and future-ready graduates,' said Dr. Wafi Dawood, CEO of KHDA's Strategic Development Sector. 'This supports both economic growth and global competitiveness.' Enrolment numbers reflect this momentum. The 2024–25 academic year saw a record 20% rise in student numbers, including a 29% increase in international enrolments, bringing the total to over 42,000 students. Dubai's higher education sector currently offers more than 700 academic programmes, with many institutions earning high QS World University Rankings, reinforcing the city's appeal to global students and faculty alike. News Source: Dubai Media Office
Gulf Insider
09-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Dubai's Higher Education Sector Sees Nearly 20% Rise In Enrollment
Dubai is emerging as one of the world's fastest-growing higher education hubs, with total student enrollment at private institutions rising by around 20 per cent in the 2024–25 academic year, and international student numbers jumping 29 per cent, according to figures released by Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and global consultancy L.E.K. Consulting. More than 42,000 students are now enrolled across 41 private higher education institutions licensed by the KHDA, with international students making up 35 per cent of the total — a figure expected to rise under the emirate's Education 33 strategy. Four new international universities opened in the current academic year alone, signalling strong investor confidence in Dubai's education sector. The data was released at an exclusive high-level briefing hosted by L.E.K. Consulting's Global Education Practice recently in Dubai. The event brought together policymakers, investors, and higher education leaders to discuss Dubai's ambitions to become a world-class destination for transnational education. 'Dubai's continued growth as a global hub for higher education is testament to our leadership's vision and the ambitious goals of the Dubai Plan 33,' saidDr Wafi Dawood, CEO of the Strategic Development Sector at KHDA. 'Through E33, we are building a future where Dubai is not only a destination for quality education, but a centre of knowledge, innovation, and opportunity.' The KHDA's City of Students initiative, part of its broader Education 33 strategy, aims to increase international student enrollment to 50 per cent by 2033, bolstering the emirate's reputation as a top-tier study destination. Ashwin Assomull, partner and head of the Global Education Practice at L.E.K. Consulting, said Dubai's higher education sector represents 'one of the most compelling growth markets globally,' citing its student-friendly infrastructure, global university presence, and favourable cost and regulatory environment. 'Dubai presents a significant opportunity for international universities to meet the evolving needs of both local and international students,' he said, noting that increasing regulatory restrictions in traditional anglophone markets are pushing institutions and students to seek new education hubs. The briefing also highlighted increasing participation from Emirati students, with enrollment in international universities up 22 per cent year-on-year — underlining Dubai's dual appeal to both domestic and overseas learners.
