29-04-2025
Gulf News Edufair Dubai connects students with courses to shape future careers
Packed with over 35 universities and higher-education service providers, more than 1,000 degrees from the UAE and abroad, career guidance and counselling, thought-provoking seminars and plenty of giveaways, the eighth edition of Gulf News Edufair Dubai is here to help students and mid-career professionals make smart choices about higher education.
Edufair takes place from May 9-11 at The H Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai.
As competition in the job market intensifies, institutions are continuously updating their curricula to align with emerging industry needs. At Edufair, BITS Pilani Dubai Campus showcases its expanded offerings into high-growth fields.
Nahid Afshan, Head of Admissions, explains how Edufair serves as a bridge between students and future-focused programmes. 'Events like Edufair provide a valuable opportunity for students and families to explore various future-focused programmes. We've received an enthusiastic response at the past events and invite aspiring students to connect with us at Edufair to discover how BITS Pilani Dubai Campus is preparing the next generation to lead and thrive in an ever-evolving world.'
BITS Pilani Dubai has introduced six new undergraduate degrees to meet demand in sectors from business analytics to sustainability. Along with a new BBA (Hons.), its specialised STEM degrees now include Aerospace; Architectural and Urban Engineering; Biotechnology (Applied Molecular Biology); Chemical Engineering (Energy, Environment & Sustainability); and Mathematics and Computing.
Another exhibitor Middlesex University Dubai will highlight at Edufair how it blends discipline-specific training with the soft skills employers seek.
Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Middlesex University and Director of Middlesex University Dubai, outlines the university's approach.
'The path to career success begins with the thoughtful selection of your academic programme. Our courses equip our graduates with key competencies like leadership and influence, entrepreneurial mindset, communication, empathy and inclusion, curiosity and learning, collaboration, innovation, resilience and adaptability, technological agility and problem solving and delivery.'
Stop by the Rochester Institute of Technology of Dubai's (RIT Dubai) booth to learn about courses that will give you an edge when you graduate.
'Computing Security and Computing and Information Technologies are in high demand, aligning with the growing need for digital skills. Our new New Media Design programme blends tech and creativity. Global Business Management and Psychology remain popular due to their broad career potential and our engineering programmes continue to deliver strong, innovation-driven education,' says a spokesperson.
Symbiosis Dubai, which opened its campus last year, emphasises the value of face-to-face engagement in decision-making.
'Educational fairs provide a valuable platform for students and parents to engage in meaningful conversations, ask questions, and gain clarity on their academic options,' says Dr Anita Patankar, Executive Director.
'Symbiosis Dubai looks forward to connecting with aspiring students at Edufair 2025, sharing insights into our academic offerings, and highlighting the diverse opportunities available at our institution,' she adds.
New to Edufair this year, Jaipur National University – Ras Al Khaimah Campus presents degrees designed to future-proof careers. Aishwarya Bakshi, CEO, explains its focus: 'Our degrees in FinTech & Digital Banking, Digital Marketing, AI & Machine Learning, Cyber Security, and Hospitality Management are designed to match the growing job opportunities in the UAE and beyond. These aren't just courses – they are career launchpads.'
Professional education providers at Edufair address skills gaps through certification and vocational training.
Taimur Ali Mir, PwC Partner and Professional Qualifications Head at PwC Academy, says, 'We offer a wide portfolio of professional qualifications that cater to learners at every stage – from high school leavers exploring their career paths to experienced professionals looking to upskill or move up the ladder. Our programmes are designed to equip individuals with practical, relevant knowledge that aligns with current and emerging industry needs.'
Sponsors and partners
Platinum Sponsor of Edufair is Y Axis, Banking Partner is HSBC, Knowledge Partner is Kaplan, Financial Support Partner is Phoenix Financial Training, Study Abroad Partner is UniHawk, Career Exploration Partner is A Learning Lab, Learning Partner is PWC Academy, and Support Partners of the event are ACCA, Chocodate, Kwality, and Al Marai.
Some of Edufair Dubai's confirmed exhibitors are Ajman University, American University of Ras Al Khaimah, Amity University Dubai, Bits Pilani Dubai, Curtin University Dubai, Canadian University Dubai, De Montfort University Dubai, Gulf Medical University, London South Bank University, Habitat Global Partnerships, Heriot Watt University Dubai, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Mentormind, Middlesex University Dubai, Qadri International Educational Consultancy, RAK Medical & Health Sciences University, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai, Swiss Business School, SP Jain School of Global Management, Symbiosis International University Dubai, University of Birmingham Dubai, University of Europe, University of Dubai, Unique World Education – Eduzone, Westford University College, University of West London, Jaipur National University, Gyanberry Education Consultants, Kings Cornerstone International, Ascentria Examinations & Tests Preparation Center, Emirates Score Plus Centre
