DUBAI (Al-Thursday) — His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced the creation of Dubai National University, an ambitious initiative with an investment of AED 4.5 billion. The university, a key part of Dubai’s strategic projects under the Dubai Social Agenda 33, aims to enhance the city’s reputation as a global hub for higher education and scientific research. It also seeks to prepare a new generation of skilled Emirati leaders and professionals. With specialised programmes, Dubai National University aspires to rank among the top 200 universities worldwide within the next 20 years.
Sheikh Mohammed made the announcement on his official X account, saying: “Brothers and sisters, today we launch Dubai National University with an initial investment of AED 4.5 billion. Within the next decade, we aim for it to be among the top 50 young universities, offering future-focused academic programmes and becoming a leader in research. While its identity will be Emirati, its reach will be global, serving our development goals. The world is changing rapidly, and our challenge is to build generations that can adapt to these changes to create a brighter future for our nation.”
Sheikh Mohammed also set a clear target: within 20 years, Dubai National University should rank within the top 200 universities globally. Domestically, the goal is for the university to be among the top three for research contributions within ten years.
He further added that Dubai National University will provide high-quality academic programmes, which will enhance Dubai’s educational ecosystem, aiming to solidify Dubai’s place among the world’s top ten cities for education in the next decade. “We are not just building a university; we are building a future that crosses borders,” Sheikh Mohammed stated. “Our vision is to create a knowledge centre that will serve as a beacon for science, a hub for youth, and a resource for the future.”
The leadership team for the new university includes Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as its President, Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as Vice President, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. An international advisory council will support the institution, guiding it with expertise from multiple disciplines.
A vision for future generations
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, emphasised that Dubai National University will be a cornerstone in empowering young Emirati talent. “Under Sheikh Mohammed’s leadership, Dubai continues to foster human development, and this university will play a pivotal role in shaping future sectors, driving innovation, and advancing economic and social development.”
He added that the university will not only nurture local talent but also attract global expertise, fostering partnerships with research centres, academic institutions, and experts worldwide. “Dubai National University will be part of our dynamic innovation ecosystem, supporting our knowledge community and advancing our goals of making Dubai one of the top ten cities for education globally within the next decade.”
Supporting economic development and innovation
Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Vice President of Dubai National University, noted that universities play a critical role in driving economic growth. He stressed that universities act as research centres that enhance competitiveness and contribute to the growth of knowledge-based economies. “Under Sheikh Mohammed’s guidance, Dubai’s universities have become centres for economic development and innovation, and Dubai National University will further cement Dubai’s position as a global leader in education. The university will equip young people with entrepreneurial skills to make a global impact.”
Building a knowledge-based economy
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai National University, said that Dubai remains committed to being a destination for researchers and innovators. The establishment of Dubai National University is a major step in strengthening Dubai’s position as a knowledge hub. “Sheikh Mohammed has always prioritised the creation of a knowledge-based economy, and today, Dubai National University adds a significant contribution to this vision, enriching the global academic landscape.”
Sheikh Ahmed highlighted that the university will focus on developing the skills, talents, and innovative capacities of future leaders, preparing them to anticipate change and shape emerging industries. He expressed his optimism that Dubai National University will play a central role in attracting exceptional minds and outstanding students from around the world.
Strategic leadership and global expertise
Sheikh Mohammed also announced the formation of the university’s Board of Trustees, chaired by Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Other members include prominent figures such as His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Helal Saeed Al Marri, Aisha Abdulla Miran, Ahmed bin Byat, and Professor Alawi Al Sheikh Ali.
The university will be further supported by a Global Advisory Board made up of international experts, including Dr. Mohamed El-Erian, a renowned global economist, Saeb Eigner, Professor Fadel Adib, and Fadi Ghandour. This board will promote collaboration with the international academic community, foresee global trends, and help shape the university’s academic and research priorities in line with both student aspirations and Dubai’s future goals.
Dubai National University will offer competitive admission criteria that meet the highest global standards, and its programmes will be supported by partnerships with government, business, and the broader community. The university will provide students with access to leading research labs and internship opportunities, alongside offering scholarships and a top-tier academic experience.
The new institution will also contribute to Dubai’s broader vision, as outlined in the Dubai Social Agenda 33, by enhancing human capital and instilling national values in the younger generation. The university’s establishment marks a significant step toward cementing Dubai’s role as a global leader in education and youth empowerment, particularly in equipping students for private sector employment.
