The evolution of Qatar as an education hub: Moving to a knowledge-based economy

Abstract

The UAE is well known for its success in attracting branch campuses to two of its economic free zones-Knowledge Village and the Dubai International Academic City. But Dubai isn't the only emirate successfully involved in cross-border education. Two other emirates-Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah-are actively engaged in international education and research efforts as well as hosting branch campuses. Totally they host the largest number of branch campuses in any country in the world. A striking feature of the UAE education hub approach is that there is no national plan or coordinating mechanism. Each emirate develops its own strategic plan and local initiatives. It is widely recognized that UAE is dependent on foreign workforce to move it from an oil-based economy to one that is more service and knowledge oriented. To that end, UAE needs foreign talent and realizes that becoming an education hub will support its efforts to train and retain the large expatriate population of students as well as attract international students and workers from the region and beyond.