Latest news with #DIEZ
Emirates 24/7
22-05-2025
- Business
- Emirates 24/7
Ahmed bin Saeed Attends Graduation of 300 Students from Rochester Institute of Technology-Dubai
The graduating cohort specialized in 8 undergraduate and 7 postgraduate programs across future-focused disciplines The ceremony represents a milestone in the university's ongoing journey, having graduated over 2,100 students since its establishment in 2010 RIT Dubai to launch new Master's and Bachelor's programs in various fields Ahmed bin Saeed: 'RIT Dubai has become a successful model for fostering effective partnerships between academic institutions and specialized economic zones Abdulrahman Al Saleh: 'RIT Dubai stands as an academic pillar supporting Dubai's long-term economic and social aspirations.' Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni: 'Our partnership with RIT Dubai represents a cornerstone of DIEZ's strategy to cultivate a leading economic and knowledge-driven ecosystem in the UAE and the wider region.' Dr. Yousef Al-Assaf: 'We ensure that every RIT Dubai graduate serves as an ambassador of excellence, knowledge, and a sustainable future.' Under the patronage and in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), the Rochester Institute of Technology, Dubai (RIT Dubai), located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, the special economic zone for knowledge and innovation and member of DIEZ, celebrated its 14th graduation ceremony, awarding degrees to more than 300 students across 15 bachelor's and master's programs. Generations Shaping the Future His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), said: 'This day marks a pivotal moment in the journey of a promising generation, confidently paving its path toward the future, equipped with the knowledge, scientific understanding, and advanced skills required to keep pace with rapid global developments. Investing in human capital is a cornerstone in achieving the goals of the UAE Centennial 2071 and strengthening Dubai's position among the world's leading cities for living, working, and innovation'. 'We are proud of the level of excellence demonstrated by the RIT Dubai university, which has become a successful model for fostering effective partnerships between academic institutions and specialized economic zones. Such partnerships play a key role in developing a forward-looking educational environment that supports Dubai and the UAE's future economic vision,' His Highness added. Advancing High-Quality Education and Innovation in Knowledge For his part, His Excellency Abdulrahman Saleh Al Saleh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of RIT Dubai, stated: 'We are committed to providing a world-class educational environment that reinforces Dubai's position as a leading regional hub for higher education. This is achieved through academic programs that are closely aligned with the evolving needs of the job market and the broader goals of sustainable economic and social development'. 'Today, RIT Dubai has become a comprehensive ecosystem for talent development, capacity building, and innovation. It stands as an academic pillar supporting Dubai's long-term economic and social aspirations, in line with the vision of our wise leadership to establish a diversified, knowledge-based economy built on data and advanced technologies,' His Excellency added. Fostering an Education-Based Economy His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of DIEZ, said: 'Our partnership with RIT Dubai represents a cornerstone of DIEZ's strategy to foster a leading economic and knowledge-driven ecosystem in the UAE and the wider region. This collaboration plays a vital role in creating meaningful opportunities and empowering a new generation of future-ready leaders and innovators'. 'We consider RIT Dubai a key component of long-term economic infrastructure, serving as a launchpad for entrepreneurial ideas and a driver of research and development culture. Its mission aligns closely with Dubai's strategic priorities at both the local and national levels, particularly in the areas of digital transformation, smart energy, and sustainable urban development,' His Excellency continued. Dr. Yousef Al-Assaf, President of RIT Dubai, said: 'RIT Dubai continues its steady growth as a center of educational excellence that fosters creativity and strengthens applied research partnerships across various sectors. These efforts enable us to remain an integral part of Dubai's academic and economic landscape'. 'We are planning to launch new academic programs in areas such as artificial intelligence, integrative design, health informatics, health management, advertising, and public relations, in response to evolving market demands. This underscores our continued commitment to academic innovation, as we strive to ensure that every RIT Dubai graduate serves as an ambassador of excellence, knowledge, and a sustainable future,' he further stated. Sustained Academic Growth and Excellence This year's graduating class completed 15 academic programs, comprising eight undergraduate and seven postgraduate degrees. The undergraduate programs included electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, marketing, global business administration, finance, cybersecurity, computing and information technology. At the postgraduate level, students graduated in data analysis, smart cities, future foresight and planning, mechanical engineering, engineering management, electrical engineering, and cybersecurity. This ceremony marks the culmination of a successful academic journey. Since its establishment in 2010, RIT Dubai has graduated more than 2,100 students across its bachelor's, master's, and diploma programs. Future Plans During the current academic year, RIT Dubai launched a new bachelor's program in modern media design, one of its latest specialized offerings aimed at equipping students with skills in interactive and platform design. In support of these developments, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum has recently approved the second phase of the RIT Dubai campus expansion project. The AED 313 million initiative spans a construction area of over 85,000 square meters and will bring the total built-up area of the campus to more than 124,000 square meters, which is an increase of 217% over its current footprint. This expansion is expected to increase the university's capacity to approximately 4,500 students, representing a 115% increase. It will include nine new academic and administrative buildings, and advanced learning facilities, further enhancing the Institute's standing as a global hub for innovation and scientific research. The Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) will implement the expansion project in two phases. The first phase is scheduled for completion by the first quarter of 2027, while the second phase is expected to conclude by the third quarter of 2028. Upon completion, the total investment in RIT Dubai's campus infrastructure since its inception will exceed AED 520 million. Advanced Academic Destination RIT Dubai is a proud branch of the prestigious Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) in New York, carrying with it a distinguished legacy of nearly 200 years of academic excellence. Since its establishment in Dubai, RIT Dubai has solidified its position as a leading educational hub, offering specialized programs in engineering, IT, business administration, psychology, and soon, digital media design. RIT Dubai provides American-accredited degrees recognized by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education, with students also having the exceptional opportunity to study at RIT's main campus in New York or any of its international branches, further enriching their academic experience and expanding their global opportunities Driving Employment Opportunities With state-of-the-art laboratories dedicated to pioneering research in AI, cybersecurity, robotics, and smart energy, RIT Dubai continues to strengthen its role as a hub for innovation and advanced technology. The Institute is committed to delivering forward-thinking educational programs that align with Dubai's vision of becoming a global leader in knowledge and the digital economy, ensuring that students are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of tomorrow's workforce. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
Mid East Info
21-05-2025
- Automotive
- Mid East Info
W Motors expands operations with contract manufacturing services for global OEMs - Middle East Business News and Information
UAE-based manufacturer announces launch of contract manufacturing division at 'Make it in the Emirates' in Abu Dhabi UAE Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Mayt, 2025: W Motors, the Middle East's first fully integrated mobility solutions provider, announced today the launch of its contract manufacturing division, designed to support global OEMs seeking to establish a manufacturing footprint in the region. This announcement was made on the sidelines of the 'Make it in the Emirates' 2025 event. Headquartered in Dubai in its recently opened automotive manufacturing facility in Dubai Silicon Oasis, the special economic zone for knowledge and innovation and a member of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority(DIEZ), W Motors will now expand its operations to Abu Dhabi to support large-scale automotive production in the UAE and the region, strengthening and enhancing its position in the global automotive industry. This strategic move aligns with the UAE's industrial development and sustainable mobility objectives, including the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, known as the '300Billion Project', which aims to develop and stimulate the country's industrial sector, as well as the UAE Industry 4.0 initiative. Supported by Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) to grow in Dubai, W Motors is now working closely with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) for the automotive cluster in Abu Dhabi and the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MOIAT) for the conformity certifications and local manufacturing, W Motors is reinforcing a shared commitment to position the UAE as the leading regional hub for automotive manufacturing. This initiative enables W Motors to provide zero-capex solutions for global OEMs looking to localize their production in the region. During the 'Make it in the Emirates 2025' event in Abu Dhabi, W Motors signed a series of high-profile strategic cooperation agreements with key international partners. The signing ceremonies were held on the 19th and 20th of May on the ADIO main stage: AIH Group , one of the world's largest contract manufacturing operators based in Pretoria, South Africa and globally recognized for their expertise in establishing manufacturing facilities and Semi-Knock Down (SKD) operations. This partnership enables W Motors to leverage AIH's extensive industrial experience to ensure world-class standards in production, operational efficiency, and quality. ROX Motor, an international luxury new energy vehicle brand, based in Shanghai China, partners with W Motors for contract manufacturing services to produce its vehicles in the UAE. Under this partnership, W Motors is localizing the production of the ROX 01 luxury SUV and will expand the production to future models, ensuring a streamlined and integrated local supply chain with comprehensive ancillary services, including logistics, assembly, and storage operations. Genesis Middle East & Africa partners with W Motors for contract manufacturing services in the UAE and to develop and manufacture special projects including the 'G80 Performance by W Motors', featuring local customization options aimed at strengthening regional capabilities and enhancing customer offerings. This collaboration builds on the strong foundation established through previous joint projects that include the 'GV80 Desert Edition' and the 'GV80 armoring'. Force Motors , one of India's largest OEMs, a fully integrated automotive manufacturer based in Pune and renowned for producing its own engines, chassis, gearboxes, axles and vehicle bodies, has partnered with W Motors to jointly develop and explore the manufacturing of a new vehicle model in the UAE. The collaboration also includes a range of services and activities aimed at driving cross-border innovation in mobility solutions between India and the UAE, targeting both local and international markets. Commenting on these announcements, Ralph Debbas, Founder & CEO of W Motors stated: 'With W Motors being established in the region for 18 years and leading the way in mobility solutions, we are building a center of excellence, a powerhouse uniting the world's largest automotive companies and facilitating local and regional growth. This ecosystem delivers cutting-edge mobility solutions, from design and engineering to localized assembly and manufacturing, all in one integrated framework. Through this initiative, we position ourselves as a turnkey manufacturing partner for OEMs seeking to establish or expand production in the Middle East, supporting national industrial growth and economic development.' Since the launch of the Lykan HyperSport as W Motors' first hypercar and with its success being featured in the Fast and Furious 7 movie, W Motors has expanded significantly to provide fully integrated mobility services to third-party clients alongside its own vehicles with in-house design, engineering, technology and manufacturing capabilities from its HQ in Dubai Silicon Oasis. The company is focused on providing products and services to its clients ranging from security & defense vehicles, last-mile electric delivery vehicles, autonomous solutions, racing cars, vehicle enhancements, design and engineering services, and now contract manufacturing. About W Motors Automotive Group Holding Limited: Founded in 2012, W Motors is the first manufacturer of high-performance luxury sports cars in the Middle East and has since evolved into a fully integrated mobility solutions provider. Headquartered in Dubai UAE, the company's capabilities span across automotive design and engineering, research & development, manufacturing, technology, and consultancy, positioning it as the leader in the region's automotive industry. Led by Founder and CEO Ralph Debbas, W Motors is the creative force behind some of the most exclusive and technologically advanced vehicles available in the market today. W Motors created and developed the GHIATH Program with Dubai Police, highlighting the company's ability in delivering turnkey solutions focused on security, defense and smart technologies. Under its dedicated Special Projects Division, W Motors is committed to driving the development of sustainable automotive solutions for the next generation and bespoke specialist vehicles designed for specific industry sectors and markets. In 2024, W Motors launched its state-of-the-art automotive facility in Dubai, UAE, built to host the company's HQ, Design and Engineering center, R&D, assembly and production lines, the region's only automotive-focused composites division, as well as a flagship showroom and a regional mobility centre of excellence. W Motors is now expanding its operations to Abu Dhabi with a cutting-edge production facility offering contract manufacturing services to global OEMs looking to establish a manufacturing footprint in the Middle East. About AIH Group: The AIH Group is a global collective of companies delivering value-added services in the automotive industry and related sectors. Its ecosystem covers automotive and industry consulting, logistics and supply chain planning, engineering, contract assembly, built environment, infrastructure and plant and equipment, human capital and economic development. With a team of full-time and project-based professionals, all with advanced qualifications and global experience, which includes experts in industrial, process, mechanical, and maintenance engineering, as well as logistics, plant planning, operations, consulting, construction, project management, human capital development, economic and sector development, and feasibility studies. The AIH Group's proven track record can be credited to a competent team of consultants with a deep understanding of industry, headed by experienced leadership. About ROX Motor: ROX Motor is an international new-energy vehicle company, focused on Smart, All-terrain, REEV innovation. We are dedicated to empowering those who yearn to explore faraway places through advanced technologies. Our vision is to become the world's leading outdoor lifestyle brand. About Genesis: As a Korean design-focused brand, Genesis has introduced fascinating models that embody 'athletic elegance', including The G70, The G80 midsize sedan and The G90 flagship sedan, as well as The GV70, The GV80 & The GV80 Coupe. With Genesis distributors based throughout the Middle East and Africa region, Genesis is present with standalone showrooms in the region, with plans to expand further into the MEA region in the near future. About Force Motors Limited: India's Leading Van Maker Founded in 1958 by Shri N. K. Firodia, Force Motors Limited was established with a vision to provide affordable, reliable, and efficient transportation for the masses. Today, it stands as a fully integrated automobile company specializing in the engineering, development, and manufacture of vehicles, aggregates, and components. The company operates five state-of-the-art manufacturing units across India, employs over 10,000 people, and is led by Dr. Abhay Firodia. Its advanced R&D center in Pune, supported by a design team of over 1,000 experts, is regarded as one of the finest in the country. Force Motors is a versatile automotive company with the capability to cater to diverse international markets by offering customized, country-specific solutions. Its formidable product range spans light commercial vehicles and multi-utility vehicles, and its export presence extends to the Middle East and Gulf region, Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Force Motors has built strong relationships with global automotive leaders by consistently delivering high-quality engines and components.
Zawya
21-05-2025
- Automotive
- Zawya
W Motors expands operations with contract manufacturing services for global OEMs
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: W Motors, the Middle East's first fully integrated mobility solutions provider, announced today the launch of its contract manufacturing division, designed to support global OEMs seeking to establish a manufacturing footprint in the region. This announcement was made on the sidelines of the 'Make it in the Emirates' 2025 event. Headquartered in Dubai in its recently opened automotive manufacturing facility in Dubai Silicon Oasis, the special economic zone for knowledge and innovation and a member of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority(DIEZ), W Motors will now expand its operations to Abu Dhabi to support large-scale automotive production in the UAE and the region, strengthening and enhancing its position in the global automotive industry. This strategic move aligns with the UAE's industrial development and sustainable mobility objectives, including the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology, known as the '300Billion Project', which aims to develop and stimulate the country's industrial sector, as well as the UAE Industry 4.0 initiative. Supported by Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ) to grow in Dubai, W Motors is now working closely with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) for the automotive cluster in Abu Dhabi and the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MOIAT) for the conformity certifications and local manufacturing, W Motors is reinforcing a shared commitment to position the UAE as the leading regional hub for automotive manufacturing. This initiative enables W Motors to provide zero-capex solutions for global OEMs looking to localize their production in the region. During the 'Make it in the Emirates 2025' event in Abu Dhabi, W Motors signed a series of high-profile strategic cooperation agreements with key international partners. The signing ceremonies were held on the 19th and 20th of May on the ADIO main stage: AIH Group, one of the world's largest contract manufacturing operators based in Pretoria, South Africa and globally recognized for their expertise in establishing manufacturing facilities and Semi-Knock Down (SKD) operations. This partnership enables W Motors to leverage AIH's extensive industrial experience to ensure world-class standards in production, operational efficiency, and quality. ROX Motor, an international luxury new energy vehicle brand, based in Shanghai China, partners with W Motors for contract manufacturing services to produce its vehicles in the UAE. Under this partnership, W Motors is localizing the production of the ROX 01 luxury SUV and will expand the production to future models, ensuring a streamlined and integrated local supply chain with comprehensive ancillary services, including logistics, assembly, and storage operations. Genesis Middle East & Africa partners with W Motors for contract manufacturing services in the UAE and to develop and manufacture special projects including the 'G80 Performance by W Motors', featuring local customization options aimed at strengthening regional capabilities and enhancing customer offerings. This collaboration builds on the strong foundation established through previous joint projects that include the 'GV80 Desert Edition' and the 'GV80 armoring'. Force Motors, one of India's largest OEMs, a fully integrated automotive manufacturer based in Pune and renowned for producing its own engines, chassis, gearboxes, axles and vehicle bodies, has partnered with W Motors to jointly develop and explore the manufacturing of a new vehicle model in the UAE. The collaboration also includes a range of services and activities aimed at driving cross-border innovation in mobility solutions between India and the UAE, targeting both local and international markets. Commenting on these announcements, Ralph Debbas, Founder & CEO of W Motors stated: 'With W Motors being established in the region for 18 years and leading the way in mobility solutions, we are building a center of excellence, a powerhouse uniting the world's largest automotive companies and facilitating local and regional growth. This ecosystem delivers cutting-edge mobility solutions, from design and engineering to localized assembly and manufacturing, all in one integrated framework. Through this initiative, we position ourselves as a turnkey manufacturing partner for OEMs seeking to establish or expand production in the Middle East, supporting national industrial growth and economic development.' Since the launch of the Lykan HyperSport as W Motors' first hypercar and with its success being featured in the Fast and Furious 7 movie, W Motors has expanded significantly to provide fully integrated mobility services to third-party clients alongside its own vehicles with in-house design, engineering, technology and manufacturing capabilities from its HQ in Dubai Silicon Oasis. The company is focused on providing products and services to its clients ranging from security & defense vehicles, last-mile electric delivery vehicles, autonomous solutions, racing cars, vehicle enhancements, design and engineering services, and now contract manufacturing. About W Motors Automotive Group Holding Limited: Founded in 2012, W Motors is the first manufacturer of high-performance luxury sports cars in the Middle East and has since evolved into a fully integrated mobility solutions provider. Headquartered in Dubai UAE, the company's capabilities span across automotive design and engineering, research & development, manufacturing, technology, and consultancy, positioning it as the leader in the region's automotive industry. Led by Founder and CEO Ralph Debbas, W Motors is the creative force behind some of the most exclusive and technologically advanced vehicles available in the market today. W Motors created and developed the GHIATH Program with Dubai Police, highlighting the company's ability in delivering turnkey solutions focused on security, defense and smart technologies. Under its dedicated Special Projects Division, W Motors is committed to driving the development of sustainable automotive solutions for the next generation and bespoke specialist vehicles designed for specific industry sectors and markets. In 2024, W Motors launched its state-of-the-art automotive facility in Dubai, UAE, built to host the company's HQ, Design and Engineering center, R&D, assembly and production lines, the region's only automotive-focused composites division, as well as a flagship showroom and a regional mobility centre of excellence. W Motors is now expanding its operations to Abu Dhabi with a cutting-edge production facility offering contract manufacturing services to global OEMs looking to establish a manufacturing footprint in the Middle East. About AIH Group: The AIH Group is a global collective of companies delivering value-added services in the automotive industry and related sectors. Its ecosystem covers automotive and industry consulting, logistics and supply chain planning, engineering, contract assembly, built environment, infrastructure and plant and equipment, human capital and economic development. With a team of full-time and project-based professionals, all with advanced qualifications and global experience, which includes experts in industrial, process, mechanical, and maintenance engineering, as well as logistics, plant planning, operations, consulting, construction, project management, human capital development, economic and sector development, and feasibility studies. The AIH Group's proven track record can be credited to a competent team of consultants with a deep understanding of industry, headed by experienced leadership. About ROX Motor: ROX Motor is an international new-energy vehicle company, focused on Smart, All-terrain, REEV innovation. We are dedicated to empowering those who yearn to explore faraway places through advanced technologies. Our vision is to become the world's leading outdoor lifestyle brand. About Genesis: As a Korean design-focused brand, Genesis has introduced fascinating models that embody 'athletic elegance', including The G70, The G80 midsize sedan and The G90 flagship sedan, as well as The GV70, The GV80 & The GV80 Coupe. With Genesis distributors based throughout the Middle East and Africa region, Genesis is present with standalone showrooms in the region, with plans to expand further into the MEA region in the near future. About Force Motors Limited: India's Leading Van Maker Founded in 1958 by Shri N. K. Firodia, Force Motors Limited was established with a vision to provide affordable, reliable, and efficient transportation for the masses. Today, it stands as a fully integrated automobile company specializing in the engineering, development, and manufacture of vehicles, aggregates, and components. The company operates five state-of-the-art manufacturing units across India, employs over 10,000 people, and is led by Dr. Abhay Firodia. Its advanced R&D center in Pune, supported by a design team of over 1,000 experts, is regarded as one of the finest in the country. Force Motors is a versatile automotive company with the capability to cater to diverse international markets by offering customized, country-specific solutions. Its formidable product range spans light commercial vehicles and multi-utility vehicles, and its export presence extends to the Middle East and Gulf region, Asia, Latin America, and Africa. Force Motors has built strong relationships with global automotive leaders by consistently delivering high-quality engines and components. For more information, please contact: Gareth Davies Sales & Marketing Director W Motors Automotive Group Holding Limited Dubai, United Arab Emirates E: gareth@ E: media@
Trade Arabia
06-05-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
$85m Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai campus expansion approved
The second phase of the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai University campus expansion at Dubai Silicon Oasis (DSO), a specialised economic zone for knowledge and innovation, has been approved by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ). Valued at over AED313 million ($85.22 million), this expansion will add 85,000 sq m of advanced educational infrastructure – increasing the total campus built-up area by nearly 217 percent to 124,000 sq m – significantly scaling up the campus capacity and reinforcing RIT Dubai's role as a global leader in academia and research, a Wam news agency report said. Upon completion, the expansion will boost the capacity of the campus by 115 percent, enabling it to accommodate approximately 4,500 students. The development will comprise nine new academic and administrative buildings, alongside cutting-edge educational and support facilities, including an expanded parking structure. The project will be delivered in two phases, with the first scheduled for completion by Q1 2027 and the second marking full completion by Q3 2028. This will bring the total investment in the university's buildings since its establishment and through the completion of this new expansion to over AED520 million. DIEZ's strategic expansion aligns seamlessly with Dubai's broader vision to elevate the quality of higher education, foster an integrated academic ecosystem, and address the growing demands of the knowledge economy. The initiative also aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, which envisions transforming Dubai into the world's leading city in terms of quality of life and sustainable development. Sheikh Ahmed highlighted how investments in higher education underscore Dubai's unwavering commitment to nurturing a forward-thinking educational environment that drives the economy of the future and strengthens its position as a global hub for knowledge and innovation. He emphasised that this expansion of RIT-Dubai reflects the vision of Dubai's wise leadership to establish an educational system that evolves alongside technological transformations and enhances the nation's competitiveness in scientific research and innovation, as a key pillar of Dubai's vision for educational development. 'We firmly believe that universities are the cornerstone of the knowledge economy. By advancing RIT Dubai within the innovative ecosystem of Dubai Silicon Oasis, we are nurturing a future-oriented educational environment that will further attract creative minds and empower key sectors by providing them with the next generation of talent. This expansion will not only address Dubai's growing academic needs but also play a pivotal role in building a knowledge-based society. In turn, it will support a diversified and sustainable economy, positioning Dubai as one of the world's top three urban economies by 2033,' he noted. Dr Mohammed Al Zarooni, Executive Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority, said: 'The expansion of RIT Dubai is a major milestone in reinforcing Dubai Silicon Oasis as a premier hub for innovation and education. It aligns with the strategy of transforming universities into free economic and creative zones. Dubai Silicon Oasis remains committed to supporting leading academic institutions in establishing specialised research programmes that align with the evolving demands of the rapidly expanding global digital economy. 'This expansion will offer students a fully integrated academic environment, equipped with state-of-the-art smart facilities and advanced technologies, fostering scientific research, innovation, and digital transformation across a variety of scientific and technological fields. As a result, it will further accelerate Dubai's growth, driving sustainable and competitive economic development, powered by the talents and innovative minds of the future generation,' he added. Dr Yousef Al Assaf, President of RIT Dubai, emphasised that the expansion is key to meeting the rising demand for advanced academic programmes. 'This expansion supports RIT Dubai's mission to supply vital sectors with the talent needed to meet the growing demands of the digital economy. Since its establishment in 2008, RIT Dubai has become an integral part of the higher education system across the GCC and the Middle East, offering modern academic programmes that keep pace with the latest global developments in scientific research and innovation,' he stated. 'Aligned with Dubai's vision for a knowledge-based economy, RIT Dubai is committed to developing and nurturing new programmes in emerging fields such as data science, AI, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) sustainability, and more. This will enhance RIT's role in equipping the region's digital economy with highly skilled professionals prepared to meet the future challenges of a rapidly evolving market,' he added. The expansion project will be executed in two phases, each covering 61,000 sq m. The first phase will involve the construction of two academic buildings, which will house the Department of Science and Arts and the Department of Business Administration. In addition, two administrative buildings, a student centre, a dining hall, and a modern parking facility will be developed. The new parking facility alone will deliver a 150 percent increase in capacity to accommodate the growing number of students and faculty. The second phase will focus on the establishment of the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, along with state-of-the-art applied science laboratories, collaborative research and innovation spaces, lecture halls, sports facilities, and a library. Through its new expansion project, RIT Dubai is setting new benchmarks in higher education by establishing five integrated academic centres dedicated to research and development. These centres are designed to empower the next generation of leaders, foster innovation, and contribute to the UAE's goals for economic diversification. The centres include the Energy and Sustainability Center, the Smart Cities Center, the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center, the Modern Manufacturing and Materials Processing Center, and the Center for Empowering People of Determination. The Modern Manufacturing and Materials Processing Center is aligned with the UAE's strategic goal of enhancing the manufacturing sector's contribution to the national GDP. At the same time, the Center for Empowering People of Determination will offer psychological support, personalised training programmes, and innovative solutions to ensure better integration and inclusion of people of determination across Dubai and beyond. Additionally, the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center will play a pivotal role in helping students and the broader community turn their business ideas into reality, fostering an ecosystem of creative problem-solving and entrepreneurial growth. Currently home to 2,100 students, RIT Dubai's upcoming expansion will enable the campus to accommodate approximately 4,500 students by Q3 2028. This significant growth will not only meet the increasing demand for higher education but also reinforce the university's commitment to providing world-class education and fostering a vibrant academic community.
Hi Dubai
06-05-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Ahmed bin Saeed Approves RIT Dubai Expansion to Boost Higher Education and Innovation
H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), has approved a major AED313 million expansion of the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai campus at Dubai Silicon Oasis. The development will more than double the campus size, significantly increasing its student capacity and reinforcing Dubai's ambitions to become a global hub for knowledge and innovation. The expansion will add 85,000 square metres of advanced academic infrastructure, bringing the total built-up area to 124,000 square metres—a 217 percent increase. Once completed in 2028, the campus will accommodate approximately 4,500 students, up from its current 2,100. The project will be delivered in two phases. Phase one is set for completion by Q1 2027 and will include academic and administrative buildings, a dining hall, and a student centre. Phase two, due by Q3 2028, will add research labs, a library, lecture halls, and specialised centres. Five integrated research centres will anchor the expanded campus, focusing on energy sustainability, smart cities, innovation and entrepreneurship, modern manufacturing, and support for people of determination. These initiatives align with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the emirate's wider goals for economic diversification. Sheikh Ahmed emphasized the expansion reflects Dubai's vision to create an education system that evolves with technological change, strengthens research, and supports a knowledge-driven economy. Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, DIEZ Executive Chairman, highlighted the project's role in positioning Dubai Silicon Oasis as a hub for education and digital innovation. RIT Dubai President Dr. Yousef Al Assaf noted the expansion will meet rising demand for future-focused programmes in fields like AI, data science, and ESG sustainability. Since its founding in 2008, RIT Dubai has become a key academic institution in the region, offering American-accredited degrees with global learning opportunities. News Source: Emirates News Agency
