IIMA to Launch Full-fledged Dubai Campus with One-Year Full time MBA for Global Professionals

Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad signs MoU with Dubai Government to establish campus at Dubai International Academic City; first batch begins in September 2025

The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to establish its first international campus in Dubai.

The agreement was signed in Mumbai by Professor Bharat Bhasker, Director, IIMA, and His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Government of India.

This collaboration marks a major milestone in IIMA’s global expansion and reinforces Dubai’s growing reputation as a hub for world-class higher education.

Two-Phase Campus Development in DIAC

The IIMA Dubai campus will be developed in two phases. In the initial phase, the institute will operate from a designated space in Dubai International Academic City (DIAC), the region’s leading higher education ecosystem. The second phase will involve the construction of a permanent campus on allocated land, expected to be operational by 2029.

First Offering: Full-time One-year MBA

IIMA’s Dubai campus will launch with a full-time One-year MBA programme designed for global professionals and entrepreneurs. The programme, structured across five rigorous academic terms, will follow IIMA’s case method pedagogy and offer extensive international exposure, elective courses, and leadership development.

Admissions will follow a two-stage process, with candidates evaluated on GMAT/GRE scores (valid within the last five years). The first batch will commence in September 2025.

“Dubai offers unparalleled access to global markets, industry leaders, and high-growth startups,” said Professor Bharat Bhasker, Director, IIMA. “We are excited to establish a world-class campus in DIAC that will help develop future-ready leaders in alignment with the UAE’s vision for innovation and entrepreneurship.”

Strategic Partnership for Global Impact

Pankaj Patel, Chairperson, Board of Governors, IIMA, described the move as a key step in expanding the institute’s global footprint: “With the support of the Government of Dubai, we are creating a vibrant centre for leadership and innovation. This is not just a campus—it's a vision to nurture the next generation of change-makers across the Middle East and beyond.”

Hadi Badri, CEO, Dubai Economic Development Corporation (DEDC), added that IIMA’s presence will elevate Dubai’s status as an academic and business hub: “Guided by the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Hamdan, this partnership aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) and will contribute to strengthening our global reputation in education, innovation, and economic impact.”

Strengthening India-UAE Educational Ties

Sunjay Sudhir, Ambassador of India to the UAE, hailed the MoU as a landmark moment in bilateral relations: “With a vibrant Indian diaspora of over 4.36 million in the UAE, IIMA’s presence in Dubai is a natural extension of India’s world-class education. It will serve not only Indians in the region but also Emiratis and the global expat population seeking high-quality management education.”

One-year Full-time MBA at IIMA Dubai

The programme is tailored to experienced professionals looking to accelerate their leadership journey in a global business environment. It combines IIMA’s academic rigour with cross-cultural insights and real-world business exposure. Key highlights include:

Five-term intensive format with a strong focus on strategic thinking and leadership

Access to global markets, corporate networks, and start-up ecosystems in Dubai

Curriculum aligned with UAE’s goals of innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth

Admission via GMAT/GRE (taken within the past five years)

Launching in September 2025

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