Celebrating our 20th Anniversary
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, we have grown into a dynamic institution that has shaped industries, empowered individuals, and championed innovation in higher education.
Through the 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. As we celebrate this milestone, we honor the journey that brought us here and look ahead to the future we will build together.
A look through the decade
Provost Dame Heather McGregor
Our journey in numbers
1st Uni
Established in 2005, as the first overseas university campus in Dubai International Academic City
120
Our campus opened with 120 students and reached over 2,000 students by 2010
4000+
We now proudly host over 4,000 students from 115 nationalities.
5 stars
Rated 5 stars over the years by the KHDA, Best University in the Middle East by Forbes ME and granted MoHESR accreditation across all our programmes
Our history
With a history dating back to 1821, Heriot-Watt University has a long and rich tradition of excellence and a proven track record of educating, inspiring and challenging the professionals of tomorrow.
Read moreOur campuses through the years
Since opening our doors in 2005, Heriot-Watt University Dubai has grown through three campuses—each one supporting our commitment to academic excellence and innovation in the region.
2005
Heriot-Watt University became the first international university to set up in Dubai International Academic City.
2010
We opened the doors to our purpose-built campus in Dubai International Academic City capable of hosting 4,500 students.
2021
We inaugurated our newest LEEDS Gold Certified campus located in the Dubai Knowledge Park that is digitally connected across our global network.
Looking forward
As we celebrate 20 years of Heriot-Watt Dubai, we also look ahead with purpose. Guided by our global strategy, Shaping Tomorrow Together, we are committed to building flourishing communities, pioneering in education, excelling in research and enterprise, and strengthening our global connectedness.
Read more