Skip to main content
Business executives talking to each other with 20 years of MBA written on the side

20 years of MBA in Dubai

For twenty years, Edinburgh Business School Dubai has been shaping confident, globally minded leaders through its MBA programme. Built on rigorous scholarship and real-world relevance, the programme brings together experienced professionals in a dynamic learning environment, combining international faculty, practical insight and strategic thinking.

As we mark this milestone, we celebrate two decades of impact in Dubai and our continued commitment to developing responsible leaders who can drive change in business and society.

Looking back 20 years

As Edinburgh Business School Dubai marks 20 years of the MBA Programme in the UAE, Professor Angus Laing reflects on the programme’s legacy, impact, and continued role in developing leaders across the region.

Martin

Martin Palmer’s story

"The MBA curriculum offered a well-balanced portfolio to complement my industry experience with up-to-date theory and best practices, spread across a broad yet relevant range of modern business topics, especially strategy and leadership."

Lucy

Lucyana Jurdi’s story

"The MBA programme offers a balance between academia and practicality. The content and material coupled with the highly experienced faculty and guest speakers have provided me with the perfect blend of viable, applicable knowledge."

Noora

Noora Alremaithi’s story

"Studying at Heriot-Watt University Dubai has been a turning point for me. The flexible structure fits my working life, and the supportive faculty makes it easier to stay motivated. It's helping me grow both professionally and personally."

To celebrate 20 years of the MBA Programme in Dubai, we are offering our MBA 20th Anniversary Scholarship. This scholarship offers an opportunity for driven individuals to advance their careers and make a lasting impact in the world of business.

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

the first heriot-watt campus with tan color and a simplified arabic architectural design

2005

Heriot-Watt University became the first international university to set up in Dubai International Academic City

front side of second hwud campus

2010

We opened the doors to our purpose-built campus in Dubai International Academic City capable of hosting 4,500 students

Dubai Campus building exterior

2021

We inaugurated our newest LEEDS Gold Certified campus located in Dubai Knowledge Park that is digitally connected across our global network

Our MBA programme

The MBA with a Specialism in Professional Practice at Heriot-Watt University is more than just a degree, it is a transformative experience designed to elevate careers and drive global impact. At Edinburgh Business School, we don’t just keep pace with the future; we define it!

View programme