Several leading universities in Dubai are stepping up efforts to help the emirate achieve its ambitious goal of having international students make up 50 per cent of total university enrolments by 2033.
With continued investments in global education partnerships and progressive strategies, Dubai is rapidly establishing itself as a premier global hub for higher education, according to university leaders.
Dr Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Director, Middlesex University Dubai, said, “With over 6,300 students from more than 127 nationalities, we are already one of the most internationally diverse campuses in the region. The number of international students at Middlesex University Dubai is expected to cross 50 per cent of the total number of students in 2026.”
He added, “We are expanding our footprint in high-potential global markets through targeted digital outreach, in-person roadshows, and strengthened education agent networks. We have announced the launch of a range of new highly innovative undergraduate and postgraduate programmes beginning in September 2025.”
University officials noted that the new degree offerings have been designed in alignment with Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, which focuses on enhancing the city’s role as a global hub for talent, innovation, and economic growth.
“The University is expanding its MBA portfolio with a few new pathways: Artificial Intelligence and Business Analytics, Aviation Management, Hospitality and Events Management, Real Estate, and Sustainability,” Fernandes explained.
Policies such as the introduction of longer-term student visas, post-study work options, and access to the UAE Golden Visa are also seen as key enablers, matching the expectations of a globally mobile student population.
At the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), the momentum is already evident. UOWD President, Professor Mohamed Salem, said, “UOWD, the largest QS Top 200 ranked university in Dubai, is firmly on track. In 2024, 55 per cent of new enrolments came from students already in the UAE, while 45 per cent were sourced via agents and direct overseas applications. UOWD rolled out since then enhanced international recruitment strategies tailored to key regions and early indicators for 2025 show strong momentum. If this trend continues, we expect UOWD to reach the 50 per cent international enrolment benchmark well ahead of the 2033 target.”
Canadian University Dubai (CUD) is also expanding its global footprint through international partnerships.
Dr Adam Fenech, Provost, CUD said, “We are expanding academic partnerships with Canadian top-tier universities to create dual degrees, exchange programs, and academic bridge pathways. These partnerships offer students both the opportunity to begin their studies in Dubai and complete them abroad or vice versa offering flexibility and global exposure.”
He added that expanding scholarship opportunities remains a priority. “We are actively enhancing our scholarship portfolio to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and global diversity. This includes increasing the number of merit-based scholarships, launching targeted regional awards, and introducing new scholarships for programs aligned with Dubai’s future economy, such as sustainability, artificial intelligence, and entrepreneurship.”
BITS Pilani Dubai Campus, one of the oldest Indian universities in the emirate, is also placing emphasis on affordability and access.
Prof. Swarnalatha Rajaguru, Associate Dean, Admissions and Marketing, said, “We understand that cost can be a key factor for international students, so we’re expanding our scholarship programs to recognize talent from across the globe. We want to support bright, motivated students—whether they excel academically, lead in their communities, or bring unique perspectives to our campus. These scholarships are part of our broader effort to make our university more accessible to top talent.”
© Khaleej Times
Twitter