There is an increasing trend of students from the UK and Europe choosing Dubai for their educational and professional development. This observation comes from Ben Hardy, the academic director of leadership programmes and a clinical professor of organisational behaviour at London Business School, one of the world’s leading business institutions.

Hardy noted that many professionals see executive MBA programmes as a way to enhance their careers, especially during mid-career challenges. Consequently, a number of these individuals are deciding to live and work in Dubai, where London Business School offers hybrid learning options for some of its programmes. Hardy commented that there is strong demand for the Executive MBA (EMBA) programme in Dubai, with the latest September intake showing growth compared to previous years, and the January intake remaining consistent with the prior year.

According to Hardy, 46 percent of the students in the last year were nationals from the Middle East, while 75 percent of all students were based in the region, predominantly residing in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Students from other countries, including the UK, Turkey, India, and Azerbaijan, have also been studying in Dubai.

Hardy explained that approximately 100 students are enrolled in the EMBA programme at the Dubai campus each year. These students include both local residents and those commuting from abroad. He anticipates that over 80 students from the Middle East will pursue the new Smart EMBA, with many opting for the September and January programmes held in Dubai. The new January 2026 programme, which combines in-person and online learning, may influence students’ decisions to study in Dubai rather than in their home countries.

He emphasized the importance of networking and learning from peers, stating that the new degree formats include at least 40 percent of core courses conducted face-to-face, facilitating community building among students. Hardy acknowledged that mid-career can be particularly challenging, as individuals often juggle work, family, and the need for continuous learning.

He advised that education should be viewed as an investment in the future, especially in the rapidly developing GCC region, where the risk of falling behind is high. Hardy encouraged students to manage their workload effectively, noting that many alumni have reported that while the process can feel overwhelming, it is manageable with consistent effort.