EMPLOYABILITY
Celebrating 20 years of impact in Dubai
For two decades, Heriot-Watt University Dubai has been on a mission to bring world-class education to the region and empower future generations of leaders.
Established in 2005, Heriot-Watt University Dubai has since grown into a dynamic institution that is shaping industries, empowering individuals, and championing innovation in higher education.
“Across twenty years, we have fostered a culture of academic excellence and real-world impact, supporting thousands of students as they carve their paths across the global landscape,” comments Professor Dame Heather McGregor, Provost and Vice Principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai.
Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) accreditation achieved
For the past two decades Heriot-Watt University Dubai has been at the forefront of shaping the UAE’s higher education landscape. A landmark achievement for this twentieth year saw the University receiving MoHESR accreditation across all of its programmes. The UAE’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR), through the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), granted Initial Programme Accreditation for all 71 programmes.
“With this prestigious accreditation, our graduates can seamlessly pursue further degrees at other accredited universities,” explains Professor McGregor. “It also enhances their opportunities to work in government and government-related sectors across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) union and wider Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.”
Valued both within the UAE and internationally, MoHESR accreditation opens doors to a broader range of career opportunities and provides our graduates with the unique advantage of a UK education delivered in Dubai that meets the highest quality standards of both regions.
With this prestigious accreditation, our graduates can seamlessly pursue further degrees at other accredited universities.”
Professor Dame Heather McGregor
An impactful education:
Heriot-Watt University Dubai alumni talk about their experiences
Muhammad Munawar Zaheer, Geotechnical Team Leader, AECOM Middle East, Dubai
“My master’s degree boosted my career in many ways. It provided deep insight into technical subjects and management skills, while earning a reputed, accredited degree enhanced my profile, leading to opportunities for higher positions in one of the world’s top consulting firms.”
Muhammad studied MSc Civil Engineering and Construction Management, graduating in 2014. He is a geotechnical leader for large-scale rail and road infrastructure, marine, reclamation and ground improvement projects across the region.
Rasha Badran, Founder and Managing Director, The Purple Chair FZE, Dubai
“Earning my degree was truly life changing. It gave me the confidence and skills to launch my own company, and almost a decade later, I still apply what I learned every day. From assessing and planning to managing all aspects of business, the programme shaped the way I approach challenges and opportunities.”
Rasha studied an MBA, graduating in 2014. The Purple Chair is an event agency that supports companies to achieve their goals. Its clients have included Bulgari, Christian Dior, Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Estée Lauder, and Emaar, among others.
Jailan Hamdy, Sustainability Engineer, Focal Middle East
“My Architectural Engineering programme provided a comprehensive understanding of the built environment, broadening my knowledge and offering diverse career options, helping me choose a path in sustainability that aligns with my interests.”
Jailan studied BEng Architectural Engineering, graduating in 2020. She recently joined Focal, a project management provider for major building projects in Europe and the Middle East, where she is engaged in sustainability consulting, energy modelling, and more.
Nursultan Belekov, Chief Operating Officer, Gewan Investment, Abu Dhabi
“My degree had a profound impact on my career, equipping me with a wealth of knowledge and skills. The nurturing environment fostered my personal and intellectual growth, instilling a strong work ethic and a passion for continuous learning. It has opened doors and paved the way for countless opportunities.”
Nursultan studied a BBA, graduating in 2012. As a results-driven leader at Gewan Investment, an aviation investment company, he is strongly focused on strategic growth, operational excellence, and corporate expansion.
20 years of delivering globally recognised, industry-relevant education
Since inception, Heriot-Watt University Dubai has grown not only in size but in impact.
In 2005, it was the first British overseas university campus to be established in Dubai International Academic City, opening with just 120 students. By 2010 the student population had grown to over 2,000 students. Today, it is home to over 5,000 students from over 100 nationalities and is one of the top UK universities in Dubai for business and links with industry.
“We have consistently achieved a 5-star rating by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), which is responsible for the growth and quality of private education in Dubai,” comments Professor McGregor. “And our new state-of-the-art James Watt building, recently opened in Dubai Knowledge Park, is yet another milestone in our endeavour to remain at the forefront of holistic student experience, research and innovation, and in our mission to nurture the next generation of leaders.”
“Delivering globally recognised, industry-relevant education that meets the evolving needs of students and the marketplace is our focus,” explains Vanessa Northway, Executive Director of Education and Student Life at Heriot-Watt University Dubai. “Our portfolio now spans key disciplines such as Data Science, Engineering, Construction, Accounting and Finance, Psychology, Robotics, Digital Marketing, Interior Architecture and Design, and Artificial Intelligence, offering world-class education that will drive transformative change.”
The new James Watt Building.
An interior view of the new James Watt Building.
