Brighton College Launches First-of-its-Kind Master's Program in Arabic, Empowering Global Learners

Brighton College schools in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain have partnered with the University of Buckingham to launch the first graduate education program taught in Arabic by a British university. This makes them the first British curriculum school group in the UAE to secure such a partnership, directly supporting the country's Education Strategy 33 goals.

Twelve Arabic language teachers from across the three schools joined the program's first cohort. The initiative builds on Brighton College's existing Arabic language programs, which aim to make Arabic the preferred language for students while strengthening their connection to Emirati culture and values.

The program follows the UK's respected education model but delivers instruction in Arabic, meeting British educational system requirements. Teachers receive training that meets international standards, which translates into more interactive and effective lessons in Arabic language, Islamic studies, and social studies for their students.

This partnership addresses a gap in teacher professional development within Arabic-medium instruction. Most graduate education programs from British institutions operate in English, making this collaboration particularly significant for schools wanting to maintain high academic standards while preserving cultural and linguistic identity.

For the UAE's education sector, this represents a practical step toward the national priority of developing critical thinking, creativity, and lifelong learning skills without compromising local language and cultural values. The program allows teachers to gain internationally recognized qualifications while working within their native language framework.

Craig Lamshid, Managing Director, explained that the partnership reflects their commitment to teaching Arabic to the highest standards across all schools. "Teachers gain an internationally recognized graduate qualification that not only celebrates their expertise but enhances their skills," he said. The program will enrich students' learning experience in Arabic and related subjects while instilling greater appreciation for the language, culture, and values.

Dr. Mayameen Al Tai, Assistant Professor in the Education Department and Head of International Teacher Training Programs at the University of Buckingham, noted that teaching the graduate education program in Arabic provides teachers with global best practices while respecting their language and cultural identity.

The collaboration signals growing recognition that effective education can maintain international standards while operating in local languages, potentially serving as a model for other institutions balancing global academic excellence with cultural preservation.