Gulf News Edufair Abu Dhabi opens with over 20 top institutions

Gulf News Edufair Abu Dhabi is opening Saturday at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort Abu Dhabi, bringing together more than 20 universities, education providers, study-abroad advisers and career services experts to help students and families explore academic opportunities and make informed decisions about their future.

Dr Deepak Mittal, Ambassador of India to the UAE, will inaugurate the two-day event, which offers visitors an opportunity to compare programmes, understand admission requirements, explore scholarships and seek guidance on career pathways.

Following a successful Dubai edition that attracted more than 7,000 visitors, Edufair returns to Abu Dhabi at a time when students face an expanding range of degree programmes, international study destinations and career choices. As artificial intelligence (AI), data science and other technology-driven fields reshape the workplace, selecting a university increasingly means looking beyond a degree to the skills, practical experience and employment opportunities it can offer.

Visitors can explore undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, professional qualifications and overseas study options while speaking directly with university representatives about admissions, student support and future prospects.

Courses designed for changing careers

Participating universities will showcase programmes that combine emerging technologies, practical learning and industry engagement to prepare students for evolving workplace demands.

Dr Eesa Al Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai, says the institution is integrating technology into its academic offerings to help students develop skills relevant to changing industries.

“By integrating artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, and digital leadership into our academic offerings, alongside international partnerships and industry-focused learning, we equip students with the skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving world,” he says.

The university will present undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including international dual-degree opportunities and courses in AI, data science and digital leadership.

“We aim to demonstrate that the University of Dubai is more than an educational institution; it is a gateway to global opportunities, innovation, and career success,” Al Bastaki adds.

Healthcare education will also feature prominently at Edufair. Dr Mohamed Baraka, Vice President, Dubai Campus, Batterjee Medical College, says the institution is adapting its programmes to meet changing demands across the healthcare sector.

“At Batterjee Medical College, we are redesigning health-professions education around the capabilities employers and patients now need: digital health literacy, responsible AI use, data-informed decision-making, interdisciplinary teamwork, entrepreneurship, communication and lifelong learning,” he says.

The college offers bachelor's programmes in nursing, respiratory therapy and occupational therapy, combining competency-based curricula with simulation, clinical exposure and industry engagement.

“Prospective students and families can meet our team, explore pathways, and learn about the support available throughout the student journey,” Baraka adds.

Middlesex University Dubai will highlight its approach to preparing students for technology-driven and changing workplaces.

Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Provost and Director of Middlesex University Dubai, says AI literacy is being incorporated across disciplines, alongside programmes in artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, financial technology, robotics and sport science.

“Equally important is experiential learning, giving students opportunities to apply their knowledge through industry engagement, internships and real-world projects,” he says.

The university will showcase more than 90 programmes across different study levels, including degrees in AI and data science, cybersecurity, business management, law, and sport and exercise science, as well as postgraduate options.

Canadian University Dubai will present programmes across its six schools, highlighting student support, career development and opportunities for international academic progression.

“At our stand, visitors can explore what it means to begin a Canadian education in the heart of Downtown Dubai. We are showcasing our future-focused programmes across six schools, alongside the support systems that help students turn ambition into meaningful outcomes, from career guidance and industry engagement to innovation, entrepreneurship and opportunities to continue their academic journey in Canada,” says Dr Rami El Khatib, Vice President – Student Affairs at Canadian University Dubai.

He says the university will also highlight its multicultural campus community, which includes more than 140 nationalities, alongside student clubs, wellbeing services, leadership opportunities and cultural activities designed to foster belonging and personal development.

Study abroad requires planning beyond admission

For students considering overseas education, choosing a university also involves understanding visa requirements, work rights and post-study options before committing to a destination.

Xavier Augustin, CEO of Y-Axis, the Platinum Sponsor of Edufair Abu Dhabi, says changing immigration policies make early planning increasingly important for students and their families.

“Immigration policy shifts quickly; a route that worked for last year’s intake may look entirely different today. Families often discover this only after enrolment, when options have narrowed,” Augustin says.

“The right approach starts earlier: mapping eligibility, work rights, and long-term settlement pathways before shortlisting universities.”

Y-Axis will offer individual consultations on course selection, visa strategy, career outcomes and IELTS preparation. Visitors can also seek guidance on study and migration pathways in Canada, Australia, Germany and the UK.

“The goal is to move visitors from browsing options to leaving with a clear, personalized next step toward study and eventual settlement abroad,” Augustin adds.

Global exposure and practical skills

International learning experiences and emerging technologies will be among the highlights presented by SP Jain School of Global Management in Dubai.

“Our multi-city learning model provides students with first-hand exposure to diverse markets and cultures,” said Dr Kavi.