Dubai National University Launched With AED 4.5 Billion Investment

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has announced plans to establish a new National University in Dubai with an initial investment of AED 4.5 billion (USD 1.22 billion).

The university will play a key role in Dubai’s Social Agenda 33, aimed at transforming the city into a global hub for higher education and scientific research, and equip Emiratis with the skills needed to excel in a rapidly evolving job market. Once operational, the university will offer specialized programs taught by leading academic experts, generous scholarships to attract top global talent, and form partnerships with leading global institutions and research centers. It aims to rank among the top 50 young universities within a decade, and the top 200 globally within 20 years.

"The university's identity will be Emirati, its programs global, and its outcomes will serve our development journey," Sheikh Mohammed said in the announcement. "The real challenge is creating generations capable of understanding the rapid changes in the world and using them to build a better future for us and our country."

Sheikh Mohammad also announced that Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, was named supreme president of the university, with Maktoum bin Mohammed as his deputy and Ahmed bin Saeed as chair of trustees.