Dubai universities are ramping up artificial intelligence (AI) education through new degree programmes, research projects, and training initiatives designed to prepare students for careers in the fast-changing global digital economy.
Institutions across Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park, both part of TECOM Group PJSC, are introducing AI-focused curricula aligned with the Economic Agenda (D33), the Education 33 strategy (E33), and the Universal Blueprint for AI.
The expansion comes as 82 per cent of students in the emirate believe technology will significantly shape their careers in the next decade, according to the Jobs of the Future report by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority.
AI training in Dubai
Marwan Abdulaziz Janahi, Senior Vice President of International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park, said: “Today’s academic programmes must empower generations of learners that are increasingly more tech-savvy than ever before.
“As the skillsets of emerging talent progressively become more innately digitised, global industry leaders at Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park are ensuring we empower human ingenuity to coexist and thrive with AI.”
Accelerating AI education
Universities across the two districts are deploying AI in both academic and operational settings — from undergraduate degrees and PhD programmes to research partnerships and executive education courses.
Amity University Dubai offers a BSc in Computer Science with concentrations in AI and Cybersecurity, combining lab-based projects and electives focused on practical innovation.
Dr Saif Al Seiari, Vice Chancellor of Amity University Dubai, said: “We are equipping students to build intelligent, secure systems with real-world impact. Through advanced labs, practical projects and industry-relevant pathways, students gain the skills to thrive in an innovation-driven economy.”
Middlesex University has launched new AI and data-driven modules across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes — including AI and Predictive Analytics, Intelligent Marketing, and an MBA pathway in AI and Business Analytics.
It also became the first UAE university accredited by the Institute of Analytics (IoA) for its MSc Financial Technology programme.
Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Director, Middlesex University Dubai, said: “Dubai has rapidly emerged as a global higher education hub, offering students a safe, inclusive, and opportunity-rich environment. Middlesex University Dubai is preparing students for global careers in a world where quality education, stability, and innovation are more important than ever.”
University courses
The University of Birmingham Dubai, ranked 76th in the QS World University Rankings 2026, has introduced the emirate’s first PhD in AI, addressing regional priorities such as smart cities, sustainability, healthcare, and future mobility.
Professor Yusra Mouzughi, Provost at University of Birmingham Dubai, said: “Our mission in Dubai is more than just replicating global academic excellence – it’s about pioneering the future of education in a region defined by ambition and innovation.
“We’re preparing students not only for the jobs of tomorrow, but for the challenges that don’t yet exist.”
At the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), AI innovation extends beyond classrooms. The university has secured three Dubai RDI grants for AI projects such as ChatEV, which applies generative AI to enhance electric vehicle ecosystems. Students also participate in the Computer Science Innovation Fair, gaining industry mentorship from PwC Academy Middle East and Andersen AE.
Prof. May El Barachi, Head of the School of Computer Science, UOWD, said: “AI is reshaping education, enabling personalised, scalable, and intelligent learning experiences. At UOWD, we see the rise of AI as a defining moment to reimagine universities as enablers of adaptive learning ecosystems.”
Powering the future
At Abu Dhabi University (ADU), based in Dubai Knowledge Park, AI tools are embedded across the student journey — from admissions to academic support.
Its AI-powered assessment system guides prospective students toward suitable programmes, while the Student Success Centre and ADU-Connect platform use AI for personalised learning, self-assessment, and employability insights.
Dr Hamad Odhabi, Vice Chancellor for AI and Operational Excellence at ADU, said: “AI now works seamlessly in the background to streamline processes, personalise learning, and strengthen student support services, reducing reliance on manual interventions.”
Curtin University Dubai is responding to regional demand for digital skills through its Master of AI and Master of Cybersecurity programmes. Its expanding campus features a Future Technologies Centre, 3D Design Studio, and 3,600 sq.ft. lecture theatre dedicated to advanced interdisciplinary learning.
Professor Ammar Kaka, Pro Vice-Chancellor and President of Curtin University Dubai, said:
“Our 2025–26 academic year promises to be a pivotal time of growth and innovation as we continue to equip our students with the skills and mindset needed to make a positive impact on the world.”
Executive education
Meanwhile, The University of Manchester-Dubai, ranked 35th in the QS World University Ranking 2026, has incorporated AI into its executive education offerings. Its Data and AI for Leaders course and MentorME programme use AI-based mentor matching to enhance learning outcomes.
Randa Bessiso, Founding Director Middle East at The University of Manchester-Dubai, said: “MBA students are positioning themselves for a continually transforming regional and global economy strongly influenced by AI and data analytics, and we aim to give our students an edge in human skills development.”
Innovation ecosystem
Together, Dubai International Academic City and Dubai Knowledge Park form TECOM Group’s Education Cluster, part of a network of ten business districts that includes Internet City, Media City, and Dubai Design District (d3).
By driving collaboration between academia and industry, the clusters reinforce Dubai’s position as a global education and innovation hub, nurturing AI talent that will shape the future economy.
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