Emirati Delegation Explores Alexandria University Programs to Establish Abu Dhabi Campus

UAE-Egypt Educational Partnership Deepens as Alexandria University Prepares Abu Dhabi Campus Launch

A high-level Emirati delegation has concluded preparations for Alexandria University's new Abu Dhabi campus, set to welcome students in the 2025/2026 academic year. The initiative represents a strategic educational alliance between Egypt's second-oldest university and the UAE's vision to become a regional knowledge hub, offering dual degrees and cutting-edge programs aligned with both nations' 2030 development goals.

Strategic Timing in the Gulf's Education Race

The announcement comes as Gulf states intensify competition to attract top-tier international universities. While the UAE already hosts branches of New York University, Sorbonne, and other prestigious institutions, partnering with Alexandria University—founded in 1938 and consistently ranked among the Middle East's top universities—signals a shift toward strengthening regional academic ties rather than relying solely on Western partnerships.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Mohammed bin Khalid Al Nahyan, Chairman of Alexandria University Abu Dhabi's Board of Trustees, led the delegation's visit to the Egyptian campus, emphasizing the "brotherly relations" between the two nations and the university's potential to deliver "globally competitive graduates."

Beyond Traditional Academics: Medical Excellence and AI Focus

The delegation's tour of Alexandria University's specialized medical facilities—including pediatric cardiac catheterization units, stroke centers, and open-heart surgery departments—underscores the Abu Dhabi campus's likely emphasis on healthcare education. This aligns with the UAE's push to reduce medical tourism by developing domestic expertise.

Technology and Innovation at the Core

Dr. Abdel Aziz Konsowa, Alexandria University's president, highlighted the institution's partnerships with American and European universities in artificial intelligence, computer science, and engineering. The university's "Technology Park" project, designed to bridge academic research with knowledge economy needs, suggests the Abu Dhabi branch will prioritize innovation-driven programs.

Market Implications and Regional Context

For investors and education sector stakeholders, this partnership reflects broader trends in Gulf higher education markets. The UAE's education sector, valued at over $2 billion annually, continues attracting international institutions seeking Middle Eastern footholds. However, Alexandria University's entry differs from typical Western university expansions—it offers Arabic-language programs alongside English instruction and emphasizes regional cultural alignment.

Competitive Positioning Against Regional Rivals

Saudi Arabia's NEOM University and Qatar's Education City have set high benchmarks for Gulf academic hubs. Alexandria University Abu Dhabi's success will likely depend on its ability to offer unique value propositions: established regional reputation, cost-effective quality education, and seamless integration with local workforce needs.

Long-term Strategic Vision

The dual-degree offerings and international partnerships position this campus as more than a regional branch—it's designed as a bridge between Arab academic traditions and global educational standards. For the UAE, hosting a prestigious Egyptian university strengthens its soft power across the Arab world while diversifying its education portfolio beyond Western institutions.

The success of this venture will be measured not just in enrollment numbers, but in its graduates' ability to contribute meaningfully to the UAE's knowledge economy transformation and the broader regional development goals both nations have committed to achieving by 2030.