British University in Dubai holds first full Council meeting

BUiD will be a distinctive addition to the UAE education landscape through its links with 5-star research rated UK universities. The Council approved a three year development strategy for the new university, recently established under Law 5/2003, focusing on research projects conducted by an Advanced Studies Institute from October 2003. Masters degree courses from the University of Edinburgh and other top rank British universities will start from October 2004.

The meeting was attended by Council members, including Mr. Mirza Al Sayegh representing the Al Maktoum Foundation; Dr. Lowai M. K. Belhoul, Assistant to the Legal Adviser, Government of Dubai; Ms. Hafsa Al Ulama, Vice President - Development, The Executive Office; Mr. R. Douglas Dowie, General Manager, National Bank of Dubai; Mr. Simon Collis, Consul General, British Embassy; Mrs. Jo Maher, Director, British Council Dubai; Mr. David May, Chairman, and Mrs. Jennifer Bibbings, British Business Group.

Commenting on the establishment of the University, HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: "I am pleased to be involved with the creation of the University which will bring the best of UK education to Dubai, the UAE and the region. The British University in Dubai with be a high quality, research intensive institute offering postgraduate Masters training and research doctorates, together with 'Continuing Professional Development' courses for a wide range of professionals. It will collaborate with Federal and Dubai higher education institutions to provide increased opportunities for graduates in the UAE and throughout the region."

The Council expressed its deep gratitude to HH The Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum; HH The Deputy Ruler, Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum; and Crown Prince of Dubai, HH General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, for their support for and guidance in its work.

The Council also expressed its thanks to the founders and supporters of The British University in Dubai, including The Dubai Development and Investment Authority, The Al Maktoum Foundation, National Bank of Dubai, Rolls-Royce plc, The British Embassy, The British Business Group, and the British Council.

The British University in Dubai (BUiD) will be a not for profit university, located at Dubai Knowledge Village. It will be the first research-based university in the region, initially focusing on Masters degree programmes.