Dubai, UAE: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the establishment of Dubai National University (DNU), with a massive AED 4.5 billion ($1.2 bn) investment. This strategic initiative aims to position Dubai as a leading global education hub and foster local talent to support the nation’s ambitious future development goals.
The university will focus on providing world-class education and research opportunities across various fields, including technology, science, and business. Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that the institution would play a vital role in equipping young Emiratis and international students with the skills needed to drive innovation and economic growth in a rapidly evolving world.
Announcing the new university on his official account on X, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed said that, “Within the next 20 years, we want it to rank within the top 200 universities worldwide. Locally, the university aims to become one of the top three for contributions in research within the next ten years.”
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has announced the formation of the Board of Trustees for Dubai National University, appointing His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum as its chairman. The board features prominent figures, including His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, His Excellency Helal Saeed Al Marri, Her Excellency Aisha Abdulla Miran, His Excellency Ahmed bin Byat, and Professor Alawi Al Sheikh Ali.
الإخوة والأخوات … نطلق اليوم مشروعاً جديداً ضمن مشاريعنا لتطوير التعليم في بلادنا …
نطلق جامعة دبي الوطنية .. باستثمارات مبدئية 4.5 مليار درهم .. هدفها أن تكون ضمن أفضل 50 جامعة شابة خلال العقد القادم .. وتوفير برامج أكاديمية تخصصية ومستقبلية .. وأن تكون ضمن أفضل الجامعات في… pic.twitter.com/KKpDqHGdW0— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) September 9, 2024
Additionally, a Global Advisory Board will be established, consisting of international experts such as Dr. Mohamed El-Erian, a distinguished global economist, Saeb Eigner, Professor Fadel Adib, and Fadi Ghandour. This advisory board will collaborate with global academic and scientific communities to stay ahead of emerging trends and developments. They will propose new academic programs and research areas that align with students’ ambitions and Dubai’s vision for the future.
The launch of DNU comes as part of Dubai’s broader plan to enhance its knowledge economy and become a global leader in education and innovation. The university is expected to collaborate with prestigious academic institutions and industry leaders worldwide to offer cutting-edge programs and research opportunities. Its state-of-the-art campus will feature modern research centers and facilities designed to foster creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
The AED 4.5 billion investment underscores Dubai’s commitment to building a world-class education sector that aligns with the UAE’s long-term vision for a sustainable and diversified economy.
The announcement of Dubai National University is another milestone in the UAE’s ambitious efforts to become a global leader in education, research, and technology, ensuring the development of future generations of innovators and leaders.