Pune-  Symbiosis International University (SIU) held the formal inauguration of its first international campus, in Dubai. The event took place at the Hilton Hotel in Dubai, graced by His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan, UAE’s Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and Dr. S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, Government of India.

The event was attended by a distinguished gathering of UAE-based consul generals, prominent industrialists, leading media personalities, and over 1,000 Symbiosis alumni in leadership roles across UAE.

The SIU Dubai campus, launched in September with over 100 students, became the first Indian university in Dubai to commence operations with full accreditation and licensing from the UAE’s Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), and Ministry of Education (MOE). This achievement marks a new benchmark for Indian higher education institutions abroad, positioning SIU as a pivotal educational bridge between India and the UAE. The campus aligns with Dubai’s D33 agenda, as well as Dubai’s new Education 33 strategy, contributing to the development of a future-ready workforce by providing students with world-class, globally recognized education.

The campus offers accredited degrees such as the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting and Finance, Master of Business Administration (MBA), Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) with specializations in AI and Data Science, and Bachelor of Arts in Media and Communication, equipping students with the skills needed for careers in fast-growing industries.

In his keynote address, His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak stressed that the opening of Symbiosis University’s branch in Dubai is a significant achievement in the journey of cooperation between the UAE and India, said, “This initiative sets a new standard for academic innovation, and reflects a shared vision to promote global education in an environment that embraces multiculturalism. The launch of this branch will leave a positive impact on the higher education sector in the UAE, by offering advanced programs that keep pace with the needs of the global market.

Speaking at the occasion Dr. S. Jaishankar said, “Symbiosis International University’s Dubai campus is a proud achievement not just for Symbiosis but also for Indian higher education as a whole. This milestone is a testament to India’s commitment to fostering global talent and a bridge for deepening India-UAE educational and cultural ties,” he said. “Symbiosis has always embodied the values of knowledge-sharing and cultural understanding, making this campus a beacon of progress in international higher education.”

Prof. (Dr.) S.B. Mujumdar, Founder & President, Symbiosis and Chancellor, SIU presided over the ceremony. Dr. Vidya Yeravdekar, Pro Chancellor, SIU, Dr. R Raman, Vice Chancellor SIU, Dr. Rajiv Yeravdekar Provost, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, SIU were the other distinguished dignitaries present for the function, stated a press release.