Edufair runs from May 8 to 10 at The H Hotel.
Choosing the right degree or career path has become increasingly complex. With industry demands evolving and new fields emerging in technology, business, and sustainability, students today face more options—and greater uncertainty—than ever before.
The 10th edition of Gulf News Edufair addresses this challenge. Featuring over 35 universities and higher-education service providers, the event showcases more than 1,500 degree options from the UAE and abroad. It also offers career guidance, counselling sessions, expert seminars, and interactive experiences, helping students make informed decisions with greater clarity.
Scheduled from May 8 to 10 at The H Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai, Edufair provides a platform to explore undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, professional certifications, and upskilling pathways. Whether students are interested in science and engineering, business studies, liberal arts, or specialised qualifications, the event helps align academic choices with long-term career goals.
As interdisciplinary learning gains momentum, institutions are increasingly emphasizing programmes that reflect current industry needs.
Degrees in Demand
At SP Jain School of Global Management, visitors can explore a wide range of globally focused undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including:
- Bachelor of Business Administration
- Bachelor of Data Science
- Master of Global Business
- Global MBA
- Master of Management
- Specialised programmes, such as the Master of Artificial Intelligence in Business
Highlighting current student preferences, Dr Arindam Banerjee, Professor of Finance and Programme Director for the Master of Applied Finance & Wealth Management at SP Jain, notes:
“We are seeing strong student interest in programmes that combine business, technology, and analytics, particularly as AI and digital transformation reshape industries worldwide.”
Similarly, the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) will showcase programmes aligned with market demand, focusing on innovation and employability. Alongside core disciplines, the university is introducing new approaches to skill development to better prepare students for the evolving job market.
Prof. Khalid Hussain, Provost of AURAK, says:
“This year, we are showcasing key programmes in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Sustainable Engineering, Biotechnology, Business Administration, and other areas of growing student demand. We are also highlighting our micro-credentials initiative, which integrates industry certifications into our programmes to ensure graduates are career-ready.”
Professional Qualifications
Professional qualifications are a key feature of Edufair. ACCA, the globally recognised accountancy organisation, will present flexible pathways that prepare learners for international careers in finance and business.
“It’s a particularly exciting time as we share our forthcoming qualification redesign, with an increased focus on digital capability, sustainability, and strategic business leadership. These developments reflect strong student demand for qualifications that are locally relevant while maintaining international recognition and mobility,” says Tariro Masukume, Education Relationships Lead, ACCA Middle East & Eurasia.
Global Study Choices
In addition to local education options, Edufair places a strong emphasis on studying abroad, an increasingly popular choice among UAE students. With international universities, study abroad consultants, and immigration experts participating, the event offers guidance across every stage of the overseas education journey.
Y-Axis, a leading immigration and study abroad consultancy and Platinum Sponsor of Edufair, will highlight destinations that combine academic excellence with post-study opportunities.
Insights into Global Study Trends
Sharing insights into global education trends, Clint Khan, Director of Y-Axis, says:
“We are focusing on destinations that strike the ideal balance between academic prestige and post-graduation opportunities. Our top destinations this year are the UK, Canada, Australia, Germany, Ireland, and the United States, each offering something unique.”
Explaining the appeal of these destinations, Khan adds:
“The UK’s Graduate Route visa allows students up to two years of work after graduation, a game-changer for career-focused students. Canada offers a seamless pathway from study permit to permanent residency. Australia has reinforced post-study work rights, making it highly attractive. Germany is a hidden gem, with near-zero tuition fees at public universities and a skills-hungry job market—one of the smartest choices a student can make today. At Y-Axis, we help students look beyond the degree and plan the full journey.”
For exhibitors, Edufair is not just about showcasing programmes—it’s also an opportunity to engage directly with students and parents, understand their priorities, and provide tailored guidance.
Masukume adds:
“With students exploring an expanding range of options, engaging directly with students and parents allows us to highlight the importance of future-ready skills and show how ACCA equips learners for evolving roles in accounting, finance, business, and leadership.”
Prof. Hussain of AURAK adds:
“These interactions are equally valuable for institutions. They provide an opportunity to build trust, understand student aspirations, and highlight the career outcomes and industry relevance of our graduates. At the same time, we gain insight into evolving expectations, helping us better serve students seeking high-quality, globally recognised education in the UAE.”
Dr. Banerjee from SP Jain also emphasizes the value of direct engagement:
“Edufair provides an excellent opportunity to interact directly with students and parents, understand their aspirations, and showcase how SP Jain’s globally recognised programmes and industry-relevant curriculum prepare graduates for careers in the rapidly evolving, AI-driven global economy.”
Edufair is completely free to attend—all you need to do is register in advance.
Partners & Exhibitors
Edufair Partners:
- Platinum Sponsor: Y-Axis
- Knowledge Partner: ACCA
- Financial Training Partner: Phoenix Financial Training
Confirmed Exhibitors include:
- Amity University Dubai
- AURAK
- Canadian University Dubai
- BITS Pilani Dubai Campus
- Demont Institute of Management & Technology
- De Montfort University Dubai
- Gulf Medical University
- Heriot-Watt University Dubai
- Manipal Academy of Higher Education Dubai
- Middlesex University Dubai
- PWC Academy
- SP Jain School of Global Management
- Symbiosis International University Dubai
- University of Birmingham Dubai
- University of Dubai
- University of West London
