Dubai is emerging as a preferred destination for students worldwide, including those from the UK and Europe, seeking quality education and career growth, according to a leading academic from one of the world's top business schools.
Experts highlight that mid-career professionals often face challenges in progressing, making executive MBA (EMBA) programmes a strategic choice for career advancement. With institutions like London Business School (LBS) offering hybrid learning options in Dubai, an increasing number of professionals are choosing to study and work in the emirate.
Ben Hardy, Academic Director of Leadership Programmes and Clinical Professor of Organisational Behaviour at LBS, shared insights on the rising demand for executive education in Dubai.
“We continue to see strong demand for our Executive MBA (EMBA) programme in Dubai, with our most recent September intake growing in numbers compared to previous years and our January intake in line with the prior year,”
he stated.
A Global Hub for Executive Education
Hardy attributes this demand to Dubai’s strategic location and the world-class reputation of LBS.
“When we talk with candidates, the appeal of studying at London Business School is clear. Our campus locations in London and Dubai are ideal places to live, study, and build a global career. Additionally, our community of current students and alumni is recognised as global, diverse, and highly engaging,”
he added.
The composition of LBS’s student body reflects Dubai’s growing role as an education hub. Over the past year, 46 per cent of EMBA students were nationals from the Middle East, while 75 per cent were based in the region, primarily in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Students commuting to Dubai for studies have come from the UK, Turkey, India, and Azerbaijan.
Hardy noted that approximately 100 students are currently enrolled in the Dubai-based EMBA programme.
“We attract students from the Middle East, as well as those who commute from outside the region to take part in the programme,”
he said. He also highlighted the upcoming Smart EMBA programme, set to launch in January 2026, which will blend in-person and online learning.
“We anticipate this new format will attract more students from the UK and Europe to study in Dubai while encouraging Middle Eastern students to consider our London campus.”
Building Networks and Lifelong Learning
One of the key advantages of the EMBA programme is the opportunity to build valuable professional networks.
“Our new degree formats ensure that at least 40 per cent of the core course is conducted face-to-face, allowing students to interact and learn from one another. Additionally, with over 100 elective courses, students can expand their networks within the wider LBS community,”
Hardy explained.
Acknowledging the challenges mid-career professionals face, Hardy emphasised the importance of continuous learning.
“Balancing work, family, and education is tough. In a rapidly evolving region like the GCC, staying ahead is crucial. Continuous learning may feel overwhelming at times, but persistence and strategic time management can help professionals navigate this phase successfully,”
he concluded.
As Dubai continues to attract global talent, the city cements its position as a premier destination for executive education, offering students access to world-class programmes and dynamic career opportunities.
News Source: Khaleej Times
