Edarabia had the opportunity to interview Rafid Alkhaddar, the Pro Vice Chancellor of Amity University Dubai. In this exclusive, Mr. Alkhaddar sheds light on the university’s progressive vision, its adaptation to the evolving educational landscape, and its commitment to fostering a globally conscious academic community.

1. What is your vision for the university’s future, and how do you plan to achieve it in the next five years?

At Amity University Dubai, our vision is to build a conscious and globally engaged academic community that fosters innovation and sustainability. Over the next five years, we aim to expand our research portfolio, enhance interdisciplinary learning, and deepen our global academic partnerships. We are investing in scalable, student-centric initiatives and building strategic frameworks that align with national and global priorities. Our focus remains on developing future-ready graduates who are not only skilled but socially responsible.

2. How is the university adapting to the challenges of digital learning and integrating new technologies into education?

Amity University Dubai has developed its own digital platforms such as AmiTrax (a learning management system) and AmiLead (a CRM system) to ensure seamless access to academic content, student progress tracking, and real-time engagement. We continue to innovate by incorporating flipped classrooms, AI-enhanced teaching tools, and immersive technologies that support hybrid learning. Faculty are trained in using new pedagogical techniques that ensure that digital delivery remains interactive, personalised, and effective.

3. What strategies are you implementing to ensure diversity, equity, and inclusion across campus?

At Amity University Dubai, diversity, equity, and inclusion are foundational values that shape our policies, practices, and campus culture. With students and faculty from over 70 different nationalities, we are committed to fostering an environment where every student, faculty, and staff member feels respected, represented, and empowered.

4. What role do you see the university playing in addressing global issues like climate change or public health?

Our solar-powered campus reflects a deep commitment to sustainability and serves as a model for eco-friendly infrastructure in the region. Projects like Hydrobeats, which explores innovative water treatment through nano-filtration, highlight how our students and faculty contribute to practical, impactful solutions. Sustainability is thoughtfully woven into our curriculum, research, and student initiatives, ensuring it remains a core part of the learning experience.

5. How are you fostering partnerships with industry to enhance job opportunities for students?

Our Corporate Resource Centre and on-campus Business Incubator play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between academia and industry. Through regular career fairs, industry panels, and entrepreneurship workshops, students engage directly with top employers, startup founders, and industry leaders.

The Business Incubator has successfully supported the creation of student-led startups, including notable ventures such as Arcab, Thaely, and Le Solarium—demonstrating our commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent.

In parallel, our Corporate Resource Centre helps students build strong industry connections, offering networking opportunities, internship placements, and career guidance. As a result, our graduates have gone on to work with leading organisations such as DEWA, Unilever, ABB, HSBC, and many more across diverse sectors.

6. What steps is the university taking to support student mental health and well-being?

We recognise that academic success is deeply linked to emotional well-being. Our approach to mental health includes access to trained counsellors, wellness initiatives, and a supportive campus culture that encourages open communication. Our psychology faculty and counsellors regularly conduct workshops on managing stress, building resilience, and improving emotional intelligence.

7. How do you plan to attract and retain top faculty in a competitive academic environment?

Our academic team is central to the success of our institution. We attract top faculty by offering a research-driven, intellectually stimulating environment where innovation is encouraged and excellence is recognised. Faculty are supported through professional development programmes, international collaborations, and access to world-class facilities. Our focus on interdisciplinary research and impactful teaching makes Amity a destination of choice for academic talent.

8. How is the university leveraging alumni networks to support current students and recent graduates?

We consider our alumni an extension of the Amity University Dubai community, and an invaluable resource for our students. Alumni regularly return to campus as mentors, speakers, and industry collaborators. Through structured engagement programmes, we connect current students with graduates who have gone on to succeed in diverse industries. Our alumni continue to shape the future of Amity by giving back through internships, placements, and entrepreneurial support.

9. If you could share one motivational quote on a highway billboard, what would it say?

“Together, we will change the world.”

At Amity University Dubai, we believe in the power of collaboration, innovation, and purpose-driven education. This quote reflects our commitment to empowering students to create meaningful impact.