The approach comes as universities also remain mindful of the broader regional situation, with institutions emphasising the need to remain prepared and adaptable.
As UAE universities prepare to welcome students for the new academic year, campuses are placing greater emphasis on helping students settle in, build connections and feel supported from the very beginning.
From extended orientation programmes to dedicated wellbeing and academic support services, universities across Dubai are introducing measures to make the transition smoother, particularly for first-year students.
The approach comes as universities continue to remain mindful of the broader regional situation, with institutions emphasising the importance of staying prepared and adapting swiftly should circumstances change.
At Canadian University Dubai (CUD), the emphasis is on creating an environment where students are academically prepared while also receiving social and emotional support.
Rami El Khatib, Vice President of Student Affairs, said the university’s classrooms and facilities are ready for the new academic year, alongside a range of services designed to support students across different aspects of university life.
“We are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, student-centered and academically ready environment where students can thrive from day one. Our classrooms and facilities are fully prepared for the new academic year, supported by an integrated Student Affairs ecosystem that takes a whole-student approach to success.”
Universities focus on a smooth transition
El Khatib said students will receive academic and transition support through the Success Centre and First Year Experience programmes, while counselling and health services will cater to their wellbeing needs.
Career Services will focus on professional development and employability, while sports, recreation and student engagement programmes will provide opportunities for students to build connections and develop a sense of belonging on campus.
At Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Dubai Campus, the basic arrangements for the new academic year will remain broadly similar to last year, including orientation, timetables, transportation and accommodation.
However, Dr S. Shamanna, Pro Vice Chancellor, said the university has made additional efforts to maintain communication with students and families amid recent regional volatility. This included reaching out to prospective students who were unable to visit the campus in person.
“Our orientation, academic timetables, transportation and accommodation arrangements will broadly follow the same structure as last year. However, amid the recent volatility in the region, we have made a concerted effort to keep students, particularly those joining us for the first time, connected with the university.”
University teams also met students and parents directly to address questions about admissions, programmes and preparations for the academic year.
Shamanna said the university would continue this approach as students return to campus, adding that while core arrangements remain unchanged, support measures can be adapted if circumstances require it.
Two-week induction planned at DMU Dubai
De Montfort University Dubai (DMU Dubai) is also expanding its welcome programme for the new academic year, with a two-week orientation replacing its usual one-week induction.
Simon Bradbury, Pro Vice-Chancellor International at DMU Dubai, said the extended programme would give students more time to meet academics and classmates and become familiar with university life.
“We are preparing to welcome students back from September with a programme of induction and welcome events for both new and returning students. We know the transition into a new academic year can feel significant, particularly for first-year students, so our focus is on helping students feel confident, connected and ready to learn from day one.”
The programme will feature academic briefings, student support sessions, meetings with tutors and activities designed to strengthen the sense of community among students.
Bradbury said the university would also have the required KHDA safety measures in place, including evacuation protocols, designated safe zones and campus procedures focused on student wellbeing.
The university also operates a block teaching model, under which students study one module at a time in focused seven-week blocks rather than managing several subjects simultaneously.
For first-time university students, Bradbury advised making full use of the available support from the outset, including attending orientation, meeting tutors and exploring careers services, clubs, societies, sports and volunteering opportunities.
“Starting university for the first time can feel daunting, but our advice is to get involved early and make full use of the support available. Students should attend orientation, meet their tutors, ask questions and take time to understand how their course is structured.”
He also encouraged students to begin focusing on employability early rather than waiting until graduation.
The university recommends that students engage with careers support from the beginning of their studies to develop the skills, experience and confidence needed for future employment, while also taking advantage of clubs, societies, sports and volunteering to make the most of campus life.
