The British Council has unveiled its latest report, “Examining Sustainability of Transnational Education (TNE) Partnerships in Egypt, Qatar, and the UAE,” at Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai. The launch event brought together prominent figures from various institutions, including Middlesex University Dubai, University of Birmingham Dubai, Heriot-Watt University, Strathclyde Business School, Ajman University, and University of Bradford. To discuss the findings and explore the future of sustainable TNE partnerships in the UAE.
Highlighting the UAE’s Growing Role in Global Higher Education
The report, commissioned by the British Council and produced by Times Higher Education, emphasizes the UAE’s increasing influence in the global higher education landscape. It underscores the importance of international partnerships and collaborations in shaping the future of education in the region.
Key insights were shared by Martin Daltry, Country Director for the UAE at the British Council, and Amir Ramzan, MENA Regional Director at the British Council. They were joined by distinguished speakers including Professor Tenia Kyriazi, Deputy Director of Middlesex University Dubai. Ben Bailey, COO of University of Birmingham Dubai; Vanessa Northway, Executive Director for Education and Student Life at Heriot-Watt University; and Ismat Abu Shihab, TNE and International Education Expert. The speakers focused on strategies for developing impactful and sustainable TNE partnerships in the UAE.
Inspiring Alumni Stories and the UAE’s Vision for Higher Education
The event also showcased inspiring success stories from alumni of various UK TNE institutions, such as Middlesex University Dubai, Heriot-Watt University, Strathclyde Business School, University of Birmingham, and University of Bradford. These stories highlighted the positive outcomes of UK TNE education, demonstrating its lasting impact on students’ personal and professional lives.
The final panel discussion, which explored the UAE’s vision for the future of international higher education, featured Dr. Nitesh Sughnani, Director of Higher Education at KHDA; Hussein Al Shamaa, Director of Compliance and Licensing at RAKDOK; and Vicki Stott, CEO of QAA. Together, they discussed opportunities for expanding international partnerships and the growing role of the UAE in global higher education.
Middlesex University Dubai: A Model for Successful TNE Partnerships
As the largest UK international branch campus in the UAE. Middlesex University Dubai was featured prominently in the report as a leading example of successful transnational education. With a diverse student body of over 6,300 students from more than 120 nationalities. MDX Dubai is a key player in delivering high-quality education that aligns with Dubai’s economic priorities. The university is committed to preparing graduates for the global workforce. Offering a wide range of programs that foster academic excellence and career readiness.
The report highlights MDX Dubai’s role in driving sustainable TNE collaborations and sets a benchmark for future partnerships in the region.
