Latest news with #GulfNewsEdufair
Time of India
12-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Trump administration's visa delays drive surge in UAE university applications
The US government's recent visa restrictions and delays are prompting a sharp rise in international student applications to universities across the United Arab Emirates, according to officials at major higher education institutions in Dubai, Abu Dhabi , and Ajman. Following a proclamation by former President Donald Trump to restrict visas for international students at institutions like Harvard University-now temporarily blocked by a federal judge, students are increasingly turning to UAE universities for stability and access. The policy shift in the US has led to the suspension of student visa interviews, creating uncertainty and travel disruption for aspiring students worldwide. According to Gulf News, Heriot-Watt University Dubai reported a 53.5% increase in applications for its September 2025 intake compared to the same period last year. Professor Dame Heather McGregor, Provost and Vice Principal, said to Gulf News, the rise is driven by 'growing global restrictions on international student visas,' positioning Dubai as an 'attractive study destination.' 'Our campus recorded a 4.5 per cent year-on-year increase in enrolments for 2024/25,' she added. 'Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi rank among the world's safest, offering families peace of mind alongside academic excellence.' (Join our ETNRI WhatsApp channel for all the latest updates) Ajman-based Gulf Medical University is also seeing expanded demand. Acting Chancellor Professor Manda Venkatramana noted that applications have increased significantly year-on-year, with interest growing from Asia, Africa, and the MENA region. Live Events MORE STORIES FOR YOU ✕ UK job market slowdown raises concerns for international students Indian students made up one in four international students in US in 2024: ICE report Harvard university scores legal win against Trump's international student ban « Back to recommendation stories I don't want to see these stories because They are not relevant to me They disrupt the reading flow Others SUBMIT 'We've observed a significant spike in enquiries and interest from both students and parents across several countries – particularly those who had initially planned to pursue higher education in the US,' he said. 'Families are beginning to view the UAE as a primary choice.' Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi confirmed that international student interest has nearly doubled from the previous year. Camille Assouline, Head of Communications, Marketing and Public Affairs, told Gulf News, 'The recent visa disruptions in the US may be contributing to this shift, as more students look toward stable, globally connected alternatives.' The Gulf News Edufair events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi also reflected this trend, with universities showcasing opportunities in medical, technology, and global mobility pathways. UAE institutions cite their streamlined visa systems, strong infrastructure, and part-time work options as key attractions.
Gulf News
06-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf News
Gulf News Edufair Dubai 2025 spotlights Ras Al Khaimah's academic appeal
The eighth edition of Gulf News Edufair, set to take place from May 9 to 11 at the H Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai, will spotlight higher education opportunities in Ras Al Khaimah. As a platform that consistently promotes the UAE as a leading destination for higher education, Edufair brings together top universities across the country to help students explore academic pathways within the UAE. This year, the spotlight is on Ras Al Khaimah, which has emerged as a key hub for higher education for students in the UAE and neighboring countries. With seamless connectivity to Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi and a growing range of residential and lifestyle options, the emirate offers a compelling environment for academic and personal growth. Several higher education institutions from Ras Al Khaimah will participate as exhibitors, presenting a wide array of accredited programmes across disciplines. University representatives will be available to provide insights into admission processes, tuition structures, scholarships, and internship opportunities. The focus remains on future-ready degrees aligned with industry needs and global standards. Among the institutions showcasing their programmes at the event is RAK Medical and Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU), which offers a comprehensive portfolio of career-focused medical and healthcare degrees. Explore healthcare degrees at RAKMHSU RAKMHSU offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes including the Doctor of Medicine (MD), Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS), Bachelor of Pharmacy, and Bachelor of Science degrees in Nursing and Midwifery. RAKMHSU's programmes are fully accredited by the UAE Ministry of Education's CAA and several international bodies. The university was also recently awarded a five-star rating in the QS Stars international rating system, making it the first medical university in the UAE to receive such recognition. Industry-relevant degrees at AURAK Also participating at Edufair is the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), a sought-after institution for higher studies offering degrees across disciplines such as engineering, business, media, computer science, biotechnology and social science. 'In the next five years, fields like Artificial Intelligence, Renewable Energy, Psychology, and Business Analytics will dominate the job market,' says Dr. Stephen Wilhite, Provost of AURAK. 'At the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), we continuously adapt our curricula to meet these evolving demands. This adaptation of curricula is achieved through multiple initiatives such as partnering with industry experts and aligning our programmes with global trends.' He adds, 'Choosing a programme isn't just about what's trending, it's about finding your purpose and gaining the tools to thrive in a fast-changing world.' New to Edufair, Jaipur National University Ras Al Khaimah Campus will showcase a suite of new-age, career-oriented programmes in fields aligned with the UAE's future workforce needs. Find out about the newly opened Jaipur National University Ras Al Khaimah Campus 'At Edufair, we're excited to showcase new-age programmes built for tomorrow's careers,' says Aishwarya Bakshi, CEO, Jaipur National University Ras Al Khaimah Campus. 'Our degrees in FinTech & Digital Banking, Digital Marketing, AI & Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, and Hospitality Management are designed to match the growing job opportunities in the UAE and beyond.' 'These aren't just courses – they're career launchpads,' she adds. 'The UAE is becoming a global hub for tech, innovation, and tourism – our graduates will be ready to lead in all three.' Career-focused courses at University of West London, RAK Branch Campus Another prominent exhibitor, the University of West London, RAK Branch Campus, strategically located in the RAKEZ Academic Zone, will showcase a wide array of career-focused undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed to reflect the latest trends in business, finance, and computing. Some of its top courses include BA (Hons) in accounting and finance and business studies; BSc (Hons) in computer science and cybersecurity and postgraduate courses in business administration, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. "Edufair provides a unique platform for students and parents to engage directly with thought leaders in education. At UWL RAK, we've seen firsthand how informed decision-making can shape student success," says Sajesh Nambiar, Head of Student Recruitment & Admissions, University of West London – RAK Branch Campus. "Our presence at Edufair allows us to share our strong UK academic foundation, industry-focused programmes, and global career pathways. We welcome prospective students and parents to visit our stand, attend our sessions, and discover how UWL RAK supports ambitious learners in becoming future-ready professionals." The current edition of Edufair features over 40 universities and higher education services providers from the UAE and abroad.
