
Dubai higher education institutions to spotlight global pathways at China International Education Exhibition Tour
Leaders from the UAE's education sector are taking part in China International Education Exhibition Tour (CIEET) to explore pathways for partnerships, knowledge-building, and best practices as part of the Study Dubai delegation.
Dubai Knowledge Park and Dubai International Academic City join a delegation led by Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), in partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and Dubai Chambers, to showcase the city's holistic higher education offering and spotlight opportunities for Chinese students interested in pursuing higher education with international universities in Dubai.
Dr. Wafi Dawood, CEO of Strategy and Institutional Efficiency Sector at KHDA, said, 'Aligned with the goals of the Education 33 Strategy, the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), and the Dubai Social Agenda 33, our mission is to make Dubai the destination of choice for learners who want to shape the future.'
Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, Senior Vice President of Dubai Knowledge Park, Dubai International Academic City, and Dubai Science Park, part of TECOM Group, said, 'Our presence in the China International Education Exhibition Tour with the KHDA reinforces our commitment to enabling such meaningful connections and supporting the strategic objectives outlined in the Education 33 Strategy, Dubai Social Agenda 33, and the Dubai Economic Agenda 'D33'.'
The delegation aims to highlight Dubai's higher education offering in Beijing. Dubai Knowledge Park's and Dubai International Academic City's customers, including University of Birmingham Dubai, Middlesex University Dubai, Amity University Dubai, Curtin University, and Murdoch University Dubai aims to spotlight pathways for growth in the city, a multicultural powerhouse well-poised to foster impactful international educational partnerships.
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Hi Dubai
5 days ago
- Hi Dubai
Hiring Top Talent in Dubai: A Quick Guide
In Dubai's relentlessly dynamic and globally ambitious economy, talent is the ultimate competitive advantage. As the city continues its trajectory towards becoming a global hub for innovation, finance, and various specialised industries under initiatives like the D33 agenda, the demand for highly skilled and adaptable professionals intensifies. This robust growth, coupled with Dubai's inherent diversity, creates a uniquely competitive yet rewarding talent market. For businesses operating in or expanding into Dubai, understanding how to effectively attract, assess, integrate, and retain top-tier employees is paramount to sustained success. This guide provides practical tips for navigating Dubai's unique talent landscape, from mastering the art of attraction and interviewing to streamlining onboarding and understanding essential visa requirements. Understanding Dubai's Unique Talent Landscape Dubai's workforce environment is distinct, shaped by its rapid development and global appeal. Recognising these characteristics is the first step towards a successful hiring strategy. Diverse & Multicultural Workforce : Dubai is a melting pot of nationalities, with residents from over 200 countries contributing to its vibrant economy. This unparalleled diversity brings a wealth of perspectives, skills, and global experience. For businesses, this means access to a broad talent pool, but it also necessitates a recruitment approach that is culturally sensitive and inclusive. Understanding different work ethics, communication styles, and cultural expectations is crucial for effective team integration and management. Highly Competitive Market : The sheer volume of businesses and ambitious projects in Dubai creates a fierce competition for top talent. High-demand sectors such as technology, finance, healthcare, and specialised engineering often experience talent shortages, pushing up compensation and benefits expectations. Businesses must actively differentiate themselves to attract and secure the best candidates amidst this intense competition. Strategic Talent Pools : Talent in Dubai is sourced from various channels. Local universities produce a growing pool of young professionals, while the city's appeal draws experienced expatriates from around the globe. Furthermore, Dubai actively cultivates specialised talent through initiatives like the Golden Visa and Green Visa, encouraging long-term residency for exceptional individuals, which indirectly expands the available talent pool for businesses. Attracting Top Talent: Beyond the Compensation Package In a market where salaries can be highly competitive, offering a comprehensive and appealing value proposition beyond just compensation is vital for attracting top talent. Cultivating a Strong Employer Brand : Your employer brand is your reputation as a workplace. In Dubai, a strong employer brand is critical for standing out. Define Company Culture & Values: Clearly articulate what your company stands for, its unique working environment, and the values that drive it. This helps candidates understand if they align with your ethos. Clearly articulate what your company stands for, its unique working environment, and the values that drive it. This helps candidates understand if they align with your ethos. Showcase Growth Opportunities: Emphasize career progression paths, opportunities for skill development, training programs, and mentorship. Ambitious professionals are drawn to environments that foster continuous learning and advancement. Emphasize career progression paths, opportunities for skill development, training programs, and mentorship. Ambitious professionals are drawn to environments that foster continuous learning and advancement. Highlight Work-Life Balance & Well-being: In a fast-paced city, employees value work-life balance. Showcase initiatives like flexible working arrangements (where applicable), wellness programs, and a supportive environment that prioritizes employee well-being. In a fast-paced city, employees value work-life balance. Showcase initiatives like flexible working arrangements (where applicable), wellness programs, and a supportive environment that prioritizes employee well-being. Leverage Digital Platforms: Utilize your company website's career page, LinkedIn, and other social media channels to tell your company's story through employee testimonials, team events, and insights into daily operations. Authenticity resonates deeply. Crafting a Compelling Value Proposition : While competitive salaries are expected, the holistic benefits package and Dubai's lifestyle contribute significantly. Comprehensive Benefits: Beyond basic salary, a strong package in Dubai typically includes health insurance, annual flight tickets, housing allowances, and potentially schooling support for families. Clearly outline these benefits. Beyond basic salary, a strong package in Dubai typically includes health insurance, annual flight tickets, housing allowances, and potentially schooling support for families. Clearly outline these benefits. Dubai's Lifestyle Advantages: Actively promote the benefits of living and working in Dubai: Safety & Security: Dubai is renowned globally for its high levels of safety and low crime rates. Modern Infrastructure: World-class housing, transportation, healthcare, and educational facilities. Global Connectivity: A strategic location offering easy access to major global cities. Diverse Entertainment & Leisure: A wide array of cultural, entertainment, and sporting events. Tax-Efficient Environment: While businesses now navigate corporate tax, individuals benefit from no personal income tax, making net salaries highly attractive. Actively promote the benefits of living and working in Dubai: Strategic Recruitment Channels : To reach the right candidates, utilize a multi-channel approach. Specialized Recruitment Agencies: For niche roles or senior positions, partnering with recruitment agencies that have a strong understanding of the Dubai market and industry-specific talent pools can be invaluable. For niche roles or senior positions, partnering with recruitment agencies that have a strong understanding of the Dubai market and industry-specific talent pools can be invaluable. Online Job Portals: Platforms like LinkedIn Jobs, [suspicious link removed], GulfTalent, and Naukri Gulf are popular and effective for reaching local and international candidates. Ensure your job postings are clear, engaging, and highlight your employer brand. Platforms like LinkedIn Jobs, [suspicious link removed], GulfTalent, and Naukri Gulf are popular and effective for reaching local and international candidates. Ensure your job postings are clear, engaging, and highlight your employer brand. Employee Referral Programs: Encourage current employees to refer qualified candidates. This often leads to high-quality hires who are already a good cultural fit, and can reduce recruitment costs. Encourage current employees to refer qualified candidates. This often leads to high-quality hires who are already a good cultural fit, and can reduce recruitment costs. University Partnerships: Collaborate with universities in Dubai and the UAE to tap into fresh graduate talent, offer internships, and host career fairs. Effective Interviewing in a Diverse Market Once you've attracted candidates, the interview process in Dubai requires a nuanced approach to assess both skills and cultural adaptability. Structured Interview Process : Implement a standardised interview framework. Develop a set of competency-based and behavioural questions that are asked consistently across all candidates for a given role. This ensures fairness, reduces bias, and allows for objective comparison. Assessing Cultural & Organizational Fit : In a multicultural environment, assess a candidate's openness, adaptability, and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams. Ask questions about past experiences working in multicultural settings. Evaluate how well a candidate's personal values and work style align with your company's culture. For example, some companies are very hierarchical, others more collaborative. Skill-Based Assessments : Beyond traditional interviews, incorporate practical tests, case studies, or portfolio reviews relevant to the role. This provides objective evidence of a candidate's capabilities and problem-solving skills. Virtual Interview Best Practices : Given Dubai's international talent pool, virtual interviews are common. Ensure you use reliable platforms, maintain clear audio/video quality, and be mindful of different time zones. Provide clear instructions to candidates. Clear Communication & Expectation Setting : Use the interview as an opportunity to reiterate the role's responsibilities, key performance indicators (KPIs), career progression possibilities, and the company's vision. Transparency helps manage expectations and ensures the candidate is well-informed. Onboarding for Success: Integrating New Hires Smoothly A well-structured onboarding process is crucial for retaining top talent and ensuring they become productive members of your team quickly, especially for international hires adjusting to a new country. Pre-Arrival Support (Especially for International Hires) : Relocation Assistance: Provide practical support such as guidance on temporary accommodation options, initial transport, and essential services like setting up a local mobile number or bank account. Document Preparation: Help streamline the collection of necessary documents for visa processing to avoid delays. Comprehensive Induction Program : Beyond Paperwork: An induction should be more than just HR formalities. Immerse new hires in the company culture, values, and strategic goals. Team & Stakeholder Introductions: Facilitate introductions to immediate team members, cross-functional colleagues, and key stakeholders. Role Clarity: Clearly communicate the new hire's specific responsibilities, initial projects, KPIs, and how their role contributes to the broader company objectives. Buddy/Mentorship Program : Assign an experienced colleague (a 'buddy' or 'mentor') to guide the new hire. This informal support system helps navigate the new work environment, answers practical questions, and aids cultural integration. For international hires, providing a brief orientation on local customs, business etiquette, and social norms (e.g., during Ramadan) can significantly ease their transition and promote respectful interactions. Ensure new employees have immediate access to all necessary tools, software, internal systems, email, and relevant company documentation from day one. This minimizes frustration and accelerates productivity. Visa & Legal Essentials: A Quick Overview for Employers Navigating the visa and labor law landscape is a critical component of hiring in Dubai. While complex, understanding the basics helps ensure compliance and smooth processes. Please Note: This section provides general information and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Businesses should always consult with a qualified PRO service or legal expert for specific cases. Understanding Key Visa Types : Employment Visas: This is the most common visa for full-time employees, directly sponsored by the employing company. It grants the employee residency and work rights in the UAE. Freelance Visas/Permits: A growing trend, these permits (often issued by free zones) allow independent professionals to work legally without direct company sponsorship, offering flexibility for both businesses and talent. Golden Visa / Green Visa: While not employer-sponsored in the traditional sense, these long-term residency visas (5 or 10 years) for exceptional talents, investors, and skilled professionals are attractive to top-tier individuals. Knowing about them can enhance your understanding of the high-end talent market. Basic Sponsorship Process for Employment Visas : Entry Permit: The employer applies for an entry permit (or e-visa) for the candidate to enter the UAE. Medical Fitness Test: Upon arrival, the employee undergoes a mandatory medical examination (screening for communicable diseases like HIV and Tuberculosis). Emirates ID Application: Application for the national identity card, which is crucial for most services in the UAE. Residency Visa Stamping: The final step where the residency visa is stamped in the passport. Labor Contract Registration: The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE) registers the employment contract, which is legally binding. Key Labor Law Updates (2025 Considerations) : Fixed-Term Contracts: As of February 2, 2025, fixed-term contracts are the standard, replacing unlimited contracts. These are typically renewable every two years. Flexible Work Models: The law supports various work arrangements, including remote, part-time, and flexible work, offering more adaptability for businesses. Probation Period: Cannot exceed six months. Employers must give 14 days' written notice for termination during probation. Employees have specific notice periods if resigning during probation (14 days if leaving UAE, 30 days if joining another employer). Wage Protection System (WPS): Mandatory for companies with 10+ employees to pay wages through WPS, with stricter enforcement and monitoring by MOHRE. Anti-Harassment & Discrimination: Expanded protections against all forms of harassment and discrimination in the workplace. The Importance of PRO Services : Given the complexities of government processes, partnering with a reputable Public Relations Officer (PRO) service is highly recommended. PRO services handle all government-related document processing, visa applications, and labour department compliance, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and adherence to the latest regulations, thereby saving businesses time and avoiding potential penalties. Retaining Top Talent: Fostering a Motivated Workforce Attracting talent is only half the battle; retaining it is equally, if not more, critical for long-term business success in Dubai. Competitive Compensation & Benefits : Regularly benchmark salaries and benefits against market standards to ensure your packages remain attractive. Be transparent about performance-based increments and bonus structures. Career Development & Training : Invest in your employees' growth. Offer opportunities for upskilling, cross-training, leadership development programs, and access to industry conferences or workshops. Positive & Inclusive Work Environment : Foster a culture of respect, open communication, and psychological safety. Promote diversity and inclusion initiatives that make all employees feel valued and empowered to contribute. Implement formal recognition programs (e.g., employee of the month) and encourage informal appreciation to acknowledge hard work and achievements. Work-Life Balance Initiatives : Support employee well-being through initiatives such as flexible working hours (where possible), wellness programs, mental health support, and promoting a healthy work-life integration. Clear Communication & Feedback : Establish regular channels for feedback (e.g., one-on-one meetings, performance reviews, employee surveys) and act on employee suggestions to foster engagement and loyalty. In Dubai's dynamic and fiercely competitive business landscape, the ability to attract, hire, and retain top talent is a cornerstone of organisational success. It requires a strategic, multifaceted approach that goes beyond traditional recruitment. By understanding the unique nuances of Dubai's multicultural talent pool, cultivating a compelling employer brand, adopting effective interviewing and onboarding practices, diligently navigating visa and labour law essentials, and prioritising employee retention, businesses can build a resilient, innovative, and high-performing workforce. Investing in your people in Dubai is a crucial investment in your company's future growth and sustained competitive advantage. Also Read: UAE's 15 fastest-growing jobs Over the past few years, the UAE's job market has been evolving very fast, with more focus on the services sector as well as new-age technologies. UAE Jobseekers Demand 30% Higher Salaries as Living Costs Rise and Talent Shortages Grow The UAE job market is currently experiencing a significant mismatch between salary expectations and offers, as jobseekers demand up to 30% more than employers are willing to offer, according to the latest Naukrigulf Hiring Outlook Report. UAE Job Market Shifts to Employers' Advantage as Influx of Talent Boosts Options As more people come to country looking for jobs, companies are getting more opportunities to choose from the available talent UAE Jobs: Hiring Picks Up in 2024 with Growing Emphasis on Diversity Hiring is expected to increase by at least 15 per cent this year driven by an optimistic market outlook, according to headhunters and HR professionals in the UAE.


Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Gulf Today
Dubai 'Surprises' all, even India's power couple Virat and Anushka
The Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), has unveiled its new campaign – 'Dubai, Ready For a Surprise' – starring cricket icon Virat Kohli and celebrated actor and entrepreneur Anushka Sharma. Having visited Dubai on numerous occasions over recent years, Virat and Anushka share a personal connection with the city, inspiring them to embark on their first-ever destination-focused collaboration. Marking the first phase of this landmark partnership, the film at the heart of the campaign highlights Dubai as the perfect destination for all travellers, as Virat and Anushka unveil a series of surprises while exploring the city's diverse experiences. The film ends with an interesting twist leaving the audience wondering if there's more to discover. Dubai's vibrance Rich in colour, culture, and energy, the campaign film encapsulates the vibrant essence of the city through a blend of varied culinary experiences, spontaneous cultural interactions, thrilling adventures, and musical interludes. It offers a refreshed perspective of Dubai, beyond the quintessential landmarks and experiences – one that invites both first-time and repeat travellers to discover the city in unforgettable ways. The film highlights Dubai as the perfect destination for all travellers The story begins with Virat planning a thoughtful and personalised experience for Anushka, creating memorable moments that go beyond the expected. He reveals a new side of the city – one that matches her vibe, emotions, and preferences. He chooses each experience to align with her wishes, creating a deeper and more intimate connection with Dubai. As long-time friends of Dubai, Virat and Anushka's fondness for the destination emerges naturally on screen as they wander through hidden corners, laugh together, explore and uncover experiences that reveal the city's soul in new and surprising ways. Whether it's an intimate moment admiring the Dubai skyline from the world's highest 360-degree infinity pool (AURA SKYPOOL) or the thrill of parasailing over stunning beaches, the campaign film showcases a side of Dubai that even seasoned visitors like them find delightfully surprising. Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing, said: 'This collaboration with Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma is a natural fit – their genuine affection for Dubai and the way they engage with audiences make them ideal champions for the city. The star pair cherish their deep connection to Dubai. As we work towards the goal of further consolidating Dubai's position as a leading global city for business and leisure, aligned with the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, this campaign underlines the diversity of Dubai's ever-evolving offering and our commitment to consistently providing visitors fresh and memorable experiences, whether they are arriving for the first time or returning. "India remains one of our most important source markets, and partnerships like these help us foster meaningful cultural connections, inviting Indian travellers to explore and rediscover Dubai in new and exciting ways.' Virat said: 'Dubai holds a special place for Anushka and me. The moment we land, everything – from the flavours to the energy – feels just right. Even my favourite chole bhature tastes just as good here! But what amazes us is how the city feels familiar yet always has something new to offer. Whether it's adventure, peaceful moments in the dunes, or just vibing to the perfect playlist on the beach, there's always something for everyone. This campaign has let us see the city through fresh eyes, and we can't wait for others to do the same.' Anushka said: 'Every visit to Dubai feels like a new discovery. Whether it's for work, or to be with friends, the city surprises you in the best ways. It is a warm city, extremely comforting yet very exciting and there is something new to explore always. From thrilling adventures to unexpected moments, Dubai has a way of matching every mood and every need. We're happy to be a part of this collaboration with Dubai and to uncover fresh, exceptional experiences and personalised ways to fall in love with the city.' The campaign's hero film is supported by a 360-degree rollout across social media, digital platforms, and targeted offline activations. To watch the new 'Dubai, Ready For A Surprise' campaign film starring Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma, please visit:


Arabian Business
5 days ago
- Arabian Business
Dubai student boom as 29% surge in international enrolment signals new global education hotspot
With new universities, a major rise in foreign students, and world-class infrastructure, Dubai is rewriting the rules on global higher education. Dubai is making bold moves on the world stage — not just in finance or real estate, but now as a rising education superpower. Latest data from Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) reveals a 29 per cent spike in international student enrolment, with more than 42,000 students now studying across 41 licensed institutions. Four new international campuses opened this year alone. Dubai student growth These insights were highlighted during a briefing, hosted by L.E.K. Consulting 's Global Education Practice in Dubai, which convened senior stakeholders, policymakers, and higher education leaders to discuss Dubai's accelerating transformation into a world-class higher education destination. The event featured key perspectives from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA). According to L.E.K. Consulting's research and analysis, Dubai presents 'one of the most compelling growth markets globally for higher education,' driven by key factors, including a growing high school student base, increasing demand for transnational education, the presence of globally recognised university brands, student-friendly infrastructure, and strong post-study employment pathways. Latest figures from the KHDA highlight this strong growth momentum across the sector. More than 42,000 students are now enrolled across 41 private higher education institutions in the emirate that are licensed and regulated by the KHDA, with an increase of around 20 per cent increase in overall student enrolment in the 2024-25 academic year. International student enrolment has surged by 29 per cent compared to the previous year, now representing 35 per cent of total enrolments in the city's higher education institutions, which are licensed by the KHDA. Meanwhile, Emirati participation in international universities has also grown by 22 per cent, underscoring Dubai's dual appeal to both domestic and global learners. Four new international institutions opened in the current academic year alone. The strong growth supports KHDA's Education 33 strategy, and specifically its City of Students initiative, which aims to raise international student enrolment to 50 per cent by 2033, transforming the emirate into a world-leading destination for quality higher education. Dr. Wafi Dawood, CEO of the Strategic Development Sector at the Knowledge and Human Development Authority, said: '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 and its social and economic agendas and driven by our Education 33 strategy. 'We are creating new opportunities for transnational education, strengthening Dubai's position as a city where learners, educators, and institutions from around the world can connect, collaborate, and thrive. '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.' As the demand for transnational education, upskilling, and reskilling intensifies, the emirate's blend of strategic policy, global connectivity, and education quality continues to position it as a top-tier alternative to traditional study destinations. Ashwin Assomull, Partner and Head of the Global Education Practice at L.E.K. Consulting, said: 'With a growing pool of graduates from our wonderful array of international schools in the city, Dubai presents a significant opportunity for international universities to meet the evolving needs of both local and international students. 'Amid increasing regulatory restrictions in traditional anglophone markets, Dubai's world-class higher education infrastructure, global connectivity, favourable cost structure, and reputation for safety present unparalleled opportunities for students, operators, and investors to capitalise on this transformative growth.' Key stats behind Dubai's higher education boom