His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has officially announced the launch of Dubai National University, backed by a substantial AED 4.5 billion investment. This ambitious project is a key element of the Dubai Social Agenda 33, aiming to elevate Dubai’s status as a global leader in higher education and scientific research while nurturing a new generation of skilled Emirati professionals and leaders.
In a statement on his official X account, Sheikh Mohammed outlined the vision for the new institution: “Brothers and sisters, today we are launching a new project, Dubai National University, with an initial investment of AED 4.5 billion. Within the next decade, we aspire for Dubai National University to rank among the top 50 young universities, offering specialized and future-oriented academic programs and becoming a leading institution in research contributions. The university’s identity will be Emirati, its programs global, and its outcomes will serve our development journey. The world is changing rapidly, and the real challenge is creating generations capable of understanding these changes and using them to build a better future for us and our country.”
He further stated: “Within the next 20 years, we want it to rank within the top 200 universities worldwide. Locally, the university aims to become one of the top three for contributions in research within the next ten years.”
Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that Dubai National University will enhance the emirate’s educational landscape and support its ambitions to be among the top ten global cities for education in the coming decade.
“The world is changing rapidly,” he added, “and our real challenge is creating a generation that excels academically and keeps pace with Dubai and the UAE’s future aspirations.”
He continued: “We are not just building a university; we are building a future that transcends borders. Our goal is to establish a knowledge center that will be a beacon for science, a hub for youth, and a resource for the future.”
The university will be led by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as 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. A global advisory council featuring experts such as Dr. Mohamed El-Erian, Saeb Eigner, Professor Fadel Adib, and Fadi Ghandour will guide the institution.
Sheikh Hamdan highlighted Dubai’s commitment to advancing human development and infrastructure for higher education and research. “Dubai National University will develop local talent, attract global expertise, and foster academic collaboration with institutions worldwide, embodying Dubai’s dynamic innovation ecosystem,” he said.
Sheikh Maktoum added: “Universities are crucial for economic development, enhancing competitiveness, supporting growth, and creating new opportunities. Dubai National University will be a vital part of the Dubai Economic Agenda 33, nurturing talent and driving innovation.”
Sheikh Ahmed noted: “Dubai remains a beacon of knowledge and a destination for researchers and innovators. The establishment of Dubai National University marks a significant step in our global contribution to academic knowledge and scientific research.”
The university will have competitive admission standards, focusing on partnerships with communities, government, and businesses, and offering students access to top research facilities and internships. It will support the goals of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 by enhancing human capital and enriching national values among youth.
