The British Council launched its new report, 'Examining Sustainability of Transnational Education (TNE) Partnerships in Egypt, Qatar, and the UAE', at Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai. The event featured distinguished speakers from institutions like Middlesex University Dubai, University of Birmingham Dubai, Heriot-Watt University, Strathclyde Business School, Ajman University, and the University of Bradford, as well as key educational organizations, to discuss the findings and the future of sustainable TNE partnerships in the UAE.
The report, commissioned by the British Council and delivered by Times Higher Education, highlights the UAE’s growing role in global higher education and underscores the importance of international partnerships. The event featured insights from Martin Daltry (Country Director UAE, British Council) and Amir Ramzan (MENA Regional Director, British Council), along with contributions from Professor Tenia Kyriazi (Deputy Director, Middlesex University Dubai), Ben Bailey (COO, University of Birmingham Dubai), Vanessa Northway (Executive Director for Education and Student Life, Heriot-Watt University), and Ismat Abu Shihab (TNE and International Education Expert). These speakers focused on building impactful, sustainable partnerships and the UAE’s evolving role in the global higher education landscape.
The event also featured inspiring stories from alumni of Middlesex University Dubai, Heriot-Watt University, Strathclyde Business School, University of Birmingham, and University of Bradford, highlighting the positive impact of UK TNE education. The final panel discussion focused on the UAE’s vision for international higher education, with Dr. Nitesh Sughnani (Director of Higher Education, KHDA), Hussein Al Shamaa (Director of Compliance and Licensing, RAKDOK), and Vicki Stott (CEO, QAA) exploring future opportunities for international partnerships.
As the largest UK international branch campus in the UAE, Middlesex University Dubai was highlighted in the report as a model for successful transnational education. With over 6,300 students from 120+ nationalities, MDX Dubai drives excellence in higher education by offering diverse programmes that align with Dubai’s economic priorities and preparing graduates for the global workforce.
Key insights were shared on the operationalisation of sustainable TNE frameworks, alumni experiences, and the UAE’s strategic vision for international partnerships. The discussion focused on building equitable partnerships, co-created by all parties involved, and the need for increased knowledge-sharing opportunities.
Commenting on the report's launch, Martin Daltry, British Council Country Director UAE said, “The findings from this report underscore the UAE's growing role as a regional leader in education and its expanding TNE enrolments. The British Council is committed to fostering sustainable TNE partnerships, ensuring that the UAE continues to thrive as a hub for global education. The UAE’s strategic investment in education and its focus on diversifying its economy through education plays a crucial role in attracting international talent, driving innovation, and boosting student employability.
Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro-Vice Chancellor Middlesex University and Director, of Middlesex University Dubai added, "Middlesex University Dubai is proud to play a significant role in advancing transnational education within the UAE, supporting high-quality TNE partnerships that address both local and global needs. As one of the first and largest international branch campuses in the country, we have consistently focused on financial sustainability, strong student enrolment, and offering diverse programs aligned with Dubai’s economic priorities. This report reaffirms the importance of international collaboration in enhancing student experiences, bridging cultures, and contributing to a knowledge-driven economy”.
The launch event at MDX Dubai in Dubai Knowledge Park allowed participants to explore and discuss key insights into the future of transnational education in the UAE, focusing on the importance of sustainable partnerships and collaboration between global institutions and the UAE’s educational priorities. The British Council is committed to supporting the UAE’s educational vision by fostering long-term sustainability, encouraging innovation, and enhancing global cooperation in higher education.
