On Tuesday 23 April, the University of Europe for Applied Sciences celebrated the grand opening of its campus in Dubai, launching the first German university in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This event marked a pivotal moment in the academic and cultural exchange between Germany and the UAE and was attended by esteemed guests, including Her Excellency Sybille Pfaff, Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Dubai, Her Excellency Aisha Abdulla Miran, Director General of the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), and Professor Maurits van Rooijen, President of UE and Chief Academic Officer of GUS.

All three guests unveiled a golden plaque and gave welcome remarks, followed by a sand artist performance.

Her Excellency Sybille Pfaff said: “The inauguration of the first German private university in Dubai introduces German academic excellence to the UAE, especially in the forward-thinking city of Dubai. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact this milestone brings to the communities in UAE. The Consulate General will steadfastly support UE in building collaborations with German businesses, brands and communities.”

Professor Maurits van Rooijen said: “The opening of the University of Europe for Applied Sciences in Dubai is a landmark event, not merely for the unveiling of our academic offerings but for the establishment of a gateway to innovation and excellence in higher education outside Germany, particularly Dubai, the thriving business and innovation hub of the Middle East.

“We extend our gratitude to all the partners who have provided invaluable support from the beginning of our journey, highlighting our ambition to serve as a pivotal socio-economic bridge. We look forward to welcoming our students and are committed to supporting their journey by offering world-class education and paving the way for their personal and professional development.”

UE Dubai has established strategic partnerships with prestigious German organisations in the UAE, including DHL and the German Emirati Joint Council for Industry & Commerce (AHK) to enrich its students’ educational journey by providing hands-on experiences and expanded professional networks. The university is also dedicated to creating a vibrant multicultural environment and offers opportunities for cross-campus mobility between its Dubai campus and German campuses.

You can find out more about UE Dubai here.