IIM Ahmedabad Launches First Overseas Campus in Dubai
India’s premier business school, the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad), has officially launched its first overseas campus in Dubai in 2025. This landmark development reflects IIM Ahmedabad’s vision to widen its global footprint and offer world-class management education to students in the Middle East and surrounding regions.
As one of India’s oldest and most prestigious management institutions, IIM Ahmedabad is renowned for its rigorous academic programmes, distinguished faculty, and robust industry linkages. The new Dubai campus is designed to extend the institute’s excellence beyond India’s borders, providing international students access to cutting-edge curriculum, innovative pedagogy, and real-world business exposure.
Campus Highlights and Programmes
The Dubai campus of IIM Ahmedabad will offer a range of flagship management courses including the flagship Post Graduate Programme (PGP), executive education, and specialized certifications tailored to the global economy. Students will benefit from a blended learning approach combining classroom sessions with digital resources and international internships.
In addition to academic excellence, the campus will emphasize research collaborations focusing on emerging business trends in digital transformation, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. The multicultural environment will enhance cross-cultural learning and global networking opportunities for students and faculty alike.
Strategic Importance of Dubai Expansion
Dubai is a global business hub and gateway connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe, making it an ideal strategic location for IIM Ahmedabad’s first international venture. The campus aims to serve not only students from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries but also from wider international regions seeking high-quality management education with an Indian perspective.
This step complements growing demand for world-class business education in the Middle East and strengthens India-UAE educational ties. It also supports the broader internationalization goals outlined in India’s National Education Policy and showcases Indian academic institutions on the world stage.
Impact on International Business Education
The Dubai campus will contribute to fostering global business leaders equipped with diverse perspectives and cutting-edge management skills. By blending Indian management practices with international standards, IIM Ahmedabad aims to create a unique learning ecosystem that prepares graduates for challenges in a rapidly globalizing economy.
The move is expected to increase bilateral student exchanges, promote joint research projects, and stimulate innovation ecosystems between India and the UAE, enhancing academic and economic collaboration between both countries.
The inauguration of IIM Ahmedabad’s Dubai campus marks a historic chapter in Indian management education, setting new benchmarks for international expansion, cross-border academic collaborations, and leadership development.
