This targeted training initiative marks a critical milestone in flydubai’s strategic efforts to grow its skilled workforce, support its ambitious fleet and network expansion plans and actively champion the UAE’s broader human capital development agenda. By creating more opportunities for nationals with no prior aviation experience, the programme directly supports Dubai’s position as a resilient, future-ready global aviation hub.

Under this partnership, candidates will undertake the Flight Dispatcher Initial Course (FDIC) at Emirates Aviation University in Dubai. The FDIC is a 10-week, UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) approved programme (CAR Part II) designed to prepare candidates for a flight dispatcher licence. The course equips trainees with essential technical and operational knowledge, including aviation law, meteorology, navigation, aircraft performance, weight and balance, human factors and flight planning, while emphasising close cooperation with pilots to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Commenting on the official launch of the programme with Emirates Aviation University, Nasser Binkherbash, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at flydubai, said: “We are proud of our partnership with Emirates Aviation University. Developing national talent and investing in our people is vital to flydubai’s growth strategy. This programme not only supports our internal training and succession planning, but also contributes to national development goals by creating meaningful job opportunities and building a sustainable pool of future aviation professionals, including flight dispatchers, engineers and pilots. Opening applications now and welcoming our first batch over the next few months allows us to directly feed into our long-term workforce and meet flydubai's future expansion.”

UAE nationals with a high school diploma and under twenty-four years of age can apply for the programme. The 10-week intensive course equips trainees with the essential technical knowledge required to pass the GCAA examinations. Upon successful completion of the academic and practical phases, graduates will receive a Certificate of Course Completion, positioning them directly for their official flight dispatcher licence and a permanent career within flydubai’s expanding flight operations division.

Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University, said: “We are delighted to be embarking on the next state of this partnership with flydubai to nurture and cultivate high-calibre national talent in the aviation industry. The opening of applications for the Flight Dispatcher Programme for Emirati Nationals marks a special milestone in our commitment and journey to build a skilled and future-ready UAE national talent workforce within flight operations. We are proud to train the next generation of Emirati professionals who will be driving forward the UAE’s world-class aviation sector.”

The Flight Dispatcher Programme underscores flydubai’s commitment to enhancing its inhouse capabilities and building a strong workforce that supports its ambitious growth plans. This comprehensive ecosystem includes the carrier’s Ab Initio Pilot Training (MPL) programme, the Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering Apprenticeship and a diverse range of corporate internship and work placement opportunities. Collectively, these initiatives ensure that the next generation of UAE leaders are positioned at the very heart of Dubai's aviation success story.

Interested Emirati candidates are encouraged to submit their applications through the official flydubai Careers portal.

The MoU was signed by Nasser Binkherbash, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at flydubai, and Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University. Hamad Obaidalla, Chief Commercial Officer at flydubai, and Mick Hills, Chief Operations Officer at flydubai, also attended the signing ceremony. The agreement marks the first step toward launching the programme in July 2026, targeting Emirati nationals.

Under this partnership, candidates will undertake the Flight Dispatcher Initial Course (FDIC) at Emirates Aviation University in Dubai. The FDIC is a 10-week, UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) approved programme (CAR Part II) designed to prepare cadets for a flight dispatcher licence. The course equips trainees with essential technical and operational knowledge, including aviation law, meteorology, navigation, aircraft performance, weight and balance, human factors and flight planning, while emphasising close cooperation with pilots to ensure safe and efficient operations.

This programme is a strategic investment in flydubai’s future workforce and a key enabler of the airline’s training ecosystem. By creating a structured career development path for Emirati nationals with no prior aviation experience, the initiative broadens access to highly skilled aviation roles and strengthens the pipeline of future professionals across flight operations.

Nasser Binkherbash, Senior Vice President of Human Resources at flydubai, added: “Developing national talent and investing in our people is vital to flydubai’s growth strategy. This programme not only supports our internal training and succession planning, but also contributes to national development goals by creating meaningful job opportunities and building a sustainable pool of future aviation professionals, including flight dispatchers, engineers and pilots.”

The collaboration also reinforces flydubai’s commitment to expanding its in-house capabilities by nurturing talent from the earliest stages of their careers, ensuring operational efficiency as the airline continues to grow its network and fleet.

Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University, said: “Emirates Aviation University has deep expertise in developing and delivering targeted and impactful training for the aviation industry. Over more than three decades, we have helped build a strong talent pipeline and mould competencies for the aviation ecosystem. We are proud to be supporting this initiative to nurture Emirati talent by harnessing our educational expertise across key aviation disciplines to deliver a purposeful training programme.”

Upon successful completion of the programme and passing the required written, oral and practical examinations, graduates will receive a Certificate of Course Completion, positioning them for a flight dispatcher licence and a long-term career within the aviation sector.

By partnering with Emirates Aviation University, flydubai continues to play an active role in supporting the UAE’s broader human capital development agenda, fostering specialised skills and contributing to a resilient and future-ready aviation workforce, which includes the carrier’s Ab Initio Pilot Training (MPL) programme, Aircraft Maintenance and Engineering Apprenticeship and a wide range of internship and work placement opportunities. These initiatives will reinforce the airline’s strategic plans and create exciting career pathways for skilled homegrown talent.

13 January 2026, Dubai, UAE: At its glittering 36^th graduation, Emirates Aviation University (EAU) celebrated the accomplishments of a highly skilled class of 379 students. More than 26,500 students have graduated from EAU to date with the university boasting a 94% employability rate, demonstrating its ongoing contribution to the aviation and technology talent pipeline.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, and Chancellor of the EAU conferred the graduates with their well-earned certificates. He said: “As the industry enters a new era driven by digital transformation and innovation, the next generation of talent will play a defining role in charting its course. The graduates of EAU embody this momentum in the industry. They are equipped with the insight, resilience, and ambition needed to navigate an increasingly complex global landscape. Their achievements reflect our commitment to supporting an industry that remains vital to the world’s progress and prosperity. We extend our warmest congratulations to this exceptional cohort as they begin their journey into the future of aviation.”

The graduates were cheered on by senior Emirates Group executives, EAU’s faculty and management teams, and the graduates’ family and friends.

Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University said: “This year’s graduating class reflects the depth of talent nurtured at EAU. Our programmes are developed in close alignment with the evolving needs of the aviation and technology sectors, ensuring our students graduate with industry‑relevant expertise and a forward‑looking mindset. Their achievements reaffirm our commitment to developing professionals who are prepared to contribute to an industry that is marked by innovation and rapid transformation. We are confident they will carry forward the university’s values and continue to elevate the standards of excellence within the sector. Congratulations to the graduates!”

Held at the EAU campus in Dubai, the graduation ceremony reflected the university’s diverse community and its broad portfolio of specialised programmes. Students completed undergraduate and postgraduate studies across aviation management, aeronautical engineering, aircraft maintenance engineering, logistics and supply chain management, aviation safety and security, and other key disciplines that support the aviation ecosystem.

As an integral part of the Emirates Group, EAU leverages the former’s phenomenal knowhow and ecosystem to develop and deliver powerful, purposeful, practical programmes that ensure graduates are career-ready upon graduation. The Group trained 130 EAU interns in 2025, and over the years have hosted more than 3,000, offering students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to apply their academic knowledge and skills at Emirates and dnata.

The cohort of 379 graduates includes 296 bachelor’s and 83 postgraduate students – of which 28 engineering students are fully sponsored by Emirates Engineering. The cohort includes 121 UAE Nationals. EAU also recognised 20 exemplary students across all disciplines, reflecting the university’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of aviation leaders.

EAU is built on a strong culture of holistic education, nurturing both academic excellence and personal development. Students engage through multi‑modal learning approaches, access cutting‑edge research resources, participate in sought‑after industry collaborations and conferences organised by the university, and enjoy enriching, hands‑on learning experiences. Students presented innovative projects in engineering and artificial intelligence at NextGen Leaders Programme held during Dubai Airshow 2025, gaining experience at one of the world’s leading aviation and aerospace events.

About Emirates Aviation University

Since its founding in 1991, Emirates Aviation University, the education arm of the Emirates Group, has established itself as the leading university for aviation studies in the region. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes in aeronautical engineering, aviation management, logistics & supply management, AI & data science, aviation safety, and aviation security studies. Over the past three decades, EAU has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its facilities, faculties, learning resources, and earning global accreditations, including recognition from the prestigious Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, UK. EAU also provides a one semester internship programme with the Emirates Group for undergraduate students. For more information, please visit https://www.eau.ac.ae/en.

The agreement was signed at Dubai Airshow 2025. The initiative supports the objectives of the recently approved “Aviation Talent 33” programme by the Executive Council of Dubai, designed to empower all UAE-based talent to enhance national capabilities by bridging specialised education with technological innovation in the aviation sector.

Under the agreement, both parties will explore advanced AI-driven concepts and prototypes for air traffic management through a project focused on developing a suite of intelligent systems. These include an AI-based delay predictor, a four-dimensional trajectory deviation analyser, a sector congestion predictor, an agent-based Ground Delay Programme (GDP) recommender, and an explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) dashboard. The development of these systems will form part of high-level industrial research initiatives that bring together academics, research scientists, and PhD and undergraduate students specialising in aviation and data science. Collectively, these technologies are set to enhance operational planning efficiency and increase airspace flexibility, reinforcing Dubai’s readiness for the future within an advanced global aviation ecosystem.

Innovative Solutions

H.E. Ibrahim Ahli, CEO of Dubai Air Navigation Services, said: “This agreement with Emirates Aviation University represents a strategic partnership that strengthens our efforts to develop innovative AI-driven solutions and expand national capabilities in the advanced domains of air traffic management. Combining dans’ operational expertise with the University’s academic and research environment enables talents to acquire cutting-edge technical and scientific competencies, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to shaping the sector’s future and reinforcing Dubai’s status as a global aviation hub.”

Empowering Students

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor Emirates Aviation University said: “At EAU, we are deeply committed to progressing aviation research as it plays a vital role in understanding the industry’s complexities and mitigating its challenges. By collaborating with Dubai Air Navigation Services we are driving cutting-edge research programmes. This project empowers our researchers, data scientists and students to develop practical AI applications within an advanced operational environment. EAU is preparing a new generation of specialists capable of leading innovation and supporting UAE’s aviation ecosystem.”

A Progressive Model

The agreement reflects a progressive model of collaboration between academic institutions and operational entities in the UAE, supporting talent development at the national level and strengthening dans’ capability to build knowledge- and research-driven systems. It sets the path towards a new phase of intelligent operations across Dubai’s airspace while reinforcing the key role of Emirates Aviation University in preparing qualified aviation professionals.

The agreement is also aligned with the objectives of “Aviation Talent 33”, which aims to provide more than 4,000 advanced training opportunities to prepare national, local, and international talent with future-ready, comprehensive skills capable of keeping pace with rapid technological advances in the aviation sector, ultimately supporting world-class operational excellence across Dubai’s airports.

About Emirates Aviation University

Since its founding in 1991, EAU, the education arm of the Emirates Group, has established itself as the leading university for aviation studies in the region. The current batch, of 3,000 students, is enrolled in undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes across disciplines including: aeronautical engineering; aviation, air transport, logistics and supply management; AI; data science; and safety and security studies. EAU is accredited globally by premier institutions, including by Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, UK and EASA. For more information, please visit https://www.eau.ac.ae/en

DUBAI, UAE, 17 February, 2025 – UAE’s school students put their engineering skills to the test at Emirates Aviation University’s (EAU) eighth Water Rocket Competition, held in collaboration with Boeing [NYSE: BA]. The annual competition at EAU campus in Dubai aims to inspire innovation, encourage hands-on problem-solving, and ignite interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

Students in grades 11 and 12 worked in groups of four to build rockets using materials at hand. Participants launched their rockets at a 45-degree angle, powered solely by water and air pressure.

Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University, said: “The Water Rocket Competition is part of our corporate social responsibility initiatives. Not only does the competition ignite curiosity in young minds but it also equips future industry leaders with the skills and passion needed to drive the world forward. We hope they are inspired to pursue a career in science, technology, engineering or maths. We’re delighted with this opportunity to give back to the local community and proud to partner with Boeing.”

Kuljit Ghata-Aura, President of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia, added: "With the UAE experiencing growth in aviation and space exploration, there continues to be a rising demand for aerospace talent. Partnering with Emirates Aviation University allows us to inspire the next generation of aerospace professionals and provide students with the opportunity to gain technical skills from Boeing engineers during this competition."

The panel of judges from Emirates Aviation University and Boeing announced the winning team – It’s Not Rocket Science from Dubai English Speaking College – who broke all previous records with their rocket reaching 120 meters. Rocket Riders from Dubai Scholars Private School were first runners-up touching 117 meters, and Eagle 1 from Islamiya English School followed as second runners-up with 115 meters.

Since the first competition held in 2017, over 1,000 students from 100 schools have successfully completed the challenge and 8 have climbed the winners’ podium.

Boeing has partnered with Emirates Aviation University since 2017, supporting key initiatives such as the installation of a wind tunnel in the university’s lab, alongside other investments.

About Emirates Aviation University

Since its founding in 1991, EAU, the education arm of the Emirates Group, has established itself as the leading university for aviation studies in the region. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes in aeronautical engineering, aviation management, logistics and supply management, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data science, aviation safety, and aviation security studies. Over the past three decades, EAU has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its facilities, faculties, learning resources, and earning global accreditations, including recognition from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, UK. EAU also provides a one semester internship program with the Emirates Group for undergraduate students. For more information, please visit https://www.eau.ac.ae/en.

About Boeing

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Boeing’s relationship with the Middle East extends back to 1945. Since then, Boeing has established offices across the region including in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Kuwait, and Riyadh. For more information, visit boeing-me.com.

Held at the EAU campus in Dubai, the graduation ceremony showcased the broad range of nationalities and disciplines, which included postgraduate and undergraduate programmes in aviation management, aeronautical and aerospace engineering, aviation security, software engineering, aircraft maintenance engineering and more.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, and Chancellor of EAU, officially awarded the degrees at EAU’s 34^th ceremony, which was also attended by other dignitaries, Emirates Group executives, graduates’ families and friends and the university’s faculty.

Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University, reflected on the institution's ongoing success: "Each graduating class continues to demonstrate extraordinary talent and professionalism, with our alumni consistently advancing in positions across different areas of the aviation industry. At our core, we remain dedicated to embracing next-generation technologies and new methods of learning that prepare our students to address the evolving challenges of modern air travel. We take particular pride in our 84% post-graduation employment rate, watching our graduates forge successful careers and push boundaries across the sector."

This year’s cohort of 288 graduates included 100 postgraduate and 188 bachelor students of which 37 are Emirates sponsored students. Emirates Aviation University honoured 14 exemplary students across all disciplines, whose accomplishments reflected EAU’s commitment to delivering future aviation leaders. 

Over 180 undergraduate students received the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to intern with the Emirates Group for more than one semester. The highly sought-after roles serve as a vital stepping stone for students, performing authentic job tasks for hands-on experience, helping equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to build a strong foundation for their future careers.

About Emirates Aviation University

Since its founding in 1991, EAU, the education arm of the Emirates Group, has established itself as the leading university for aviation studies in the region. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes in aeronautical engineering, aviation management, logistics & supply management, AI & data science, aviation safety, and aviation security studies. Over the past three decades, EAU has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its facilities, faculties, learning resources, and earning global accreditations, including recognition from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, UK. EAU also provides a one semester internship programme with the Emirates Group for undergraduate students. For more information, please visit https://www.eau.ac.ae/en.

This year’s theme focused on Aviation Trends: Advancements, Regulations, and Sustainability, showcasing the industry’s evolution and how it was adapting to meet rising challenges. More than 300 researchers and specialists from a host of aviation entities, regulatory bodies, academia and leading universities attended, all keen to explore the latest research insights and advancements, and to tackle key challenges.

Professor Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor Emirates Aviation University delivered the opening address, and said: “Fuelled by demand, advances in sustainable practices and cutting-edge technology, our industry is on the brink of rapid transformation. By uniting leaders and scholars under one roof, we aim to showcase aviation’s boldest and most imaginative ideas. We’re thrilled to be able to host this conference for the fifth year and look forward to growing, evolving, and continuing it for many years to come.”

Keynote speakers included Colonel Engineer Marwan Mohammad Singel, Director of Dubai Civil Aviation Security Centre at Dubai Police, Mohamed Abubaker Farea, ICAO Middle East Regional Director, Kashif Khalid, Regional Director, OSS Africa and the Middle East IATA, Professor Paul D. Williams, Professor of Atmospheric Science, University of Reading and Professor Bijan Vasigh, Professor of Economics and Finance, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.

From the Emirates Group, keynote speakers included senior executives: Steve Allen, Chief Executive Officer dnata, Oliver Grohmann, the Emirates Group’s Executive Vice President Human Resources, John Walker Emirates’ Vice President Base Maintenance and Kieran Dowd, Vice President of Sourcing Solutions, Emirates Flight Catering and General Manager Emirates Bustanica.

Hot topics involved airline operations and management, air traffic management innovations, AI applications in aviation, and aviation safety and security.

A series of presentations outlined a bold strategy to achieve zero waste to landfill by 2030 and highlighted the growing impact of climate change, extreme weather events and shifting wind patterns on flight routes. IAMC explored the transformative technology in Human Resources with AI-driven tools and virtual platforms streamlining recruitment, and how cutting-edge innovations like drone aircraft inspections eliminated the need for scaffolding and dramatically reduced completion time and human effort.

The aviation industry is on a continuous growth trajectory, with IATA projecting industry revenues to reach a milestone of US$996 billion in 2024. The conference demonstrated the university's success in embracing seamless collaboration between academia and the aviation industry.

About Emirates Aviation University

Since its founding in 1991, EAU, the education arm of the Emirates Group, has established itself as the leading university for aviation studies in the region. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programmes in aeronautical engineering, aviation management, logistics & supply management, AI & data science, aviation safety, and aviation security studies. Over the past three decades, EAU has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its facilities, faculties, learning resources, and earning global accreditations, including recognition from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, UK. EAU also provides a one semester internship programme with the Emirates Group for undergraduate students. For more information, please visit https://www.eau.ac.ae/en.

Students in grades 11 and 12 from schools across the UAE built rockets using materials at hand. Each year, the challenge for participants is to launch water rockets at a 45-degree angle, powered solely by water and air pressure. Students design creative nose cones and fins for enhanced impact protection. During the competition they also learn how to reduce, reuse, and recycle. This year, teams had two hours to complete the task and were given two attempts to launch their rockets.

Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University, said: “Emirates Aviation University is committed to innovating and fostering creativity in young minds. Our annual Water Rocket Competition is not just exciting for the student community, it’s also an opportunity to bring in the best and brightest young minds of the country together, challenge them, and encourage them to think about STEM careers. Watching students brainstorm, collaborate, and construct these rockets is an eye-opening experience every year. We hope they are inspired to become leaders in science and engineering. We thank Boeing for their support and for making this challenge a success once again.”

Kuljit Ghata-Aura, Boeing President in the Middle East, Türkiye, Africa, and Central Asia, added: "From launching the Arab world’s first uncrewed mission to Mars to signing the Artemis Accords, the UAE is rapidly emerging as a leader in space exploration. At Boeing, we have been part of every major U.S. endeavor to escape Earth’s gravity. We are excited to continue to partner with Emirates Aviation University to inspire a new generation of aerospace scientists and provide students with the opportunity to learn new technical skills from Boeing engineers during the competition."

Following the water rocket launches, the judging panel from Emirates Aviation University and Boeing announced Eagle 1 from Islamiya English School, Abu Dhabi as the winning school, after the team launched their rocket to a distance of 99 meters. Eagle 2 from Islamiya English School, Abu Dhabi secured the first runner-up position with 93 meters, and OOW – Volts from Our Own High School, Dubai followed as the second runner-up with 92 meters.

The annual competition aims to inspire young aeronautical enthusiasts by combining creativity with the principles of rocketry and flight.

About Emirates Aviation University

Since its founding in 1991, EAU, the education arm of the Emirates Group, has established itself as the leading educational institution for aviation studies in the region. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs in aeronautical engineering, aviation management, logistics & supply management, aviation safety, and aviation security studies. Over the past three decades, EAU has experienced remarkable growth, expanding its facilities, faculties, learning resources, and earning global accreditations, including recognition from the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, UK. EAU also provides a six-month internship program with the Emirates Group for students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. For more information, please visit https://www.eau.ac.ae/en.

About Boeing

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability, and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality, and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, and Chancellor of the EAU conferred the graduates with their well-earned certificates. Joining him to honour each graduate were dignitaries, Emirates Group executives, graduates and their guests, and the academy’s faculty.

Held at the EAU campus, the graduation ceremony showcased the rich diversity of the student body with graduates representing 50+ nationalities. The graduates were from a range of disciplines, including aviation management, aeronautical engineering, aviation safety/security, logistics and supply chain management, mechanical and aircraft maintenance engineering, and software engineering.

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, said: “Both aviation and the world of work are evolving and transforming rapidly. As leaders in aviation, we want to shape the future of the industry and groom the next generation with the knowledge and competencies that equip them to be trailblazers in aviation. Fostering excellence, technical skills and leadership qualities in our students are the cornerstones of our approach and these are important for the industry’s progress and development.

Congratulations to our graduates! I look forward to them taking their rightful place in the local and global economy and to their many remarkable successes.”

Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Emirates Aviation University Vice-Chancellor said: “We are witnessing a new era in aviation, and we need to not only impart skills and knowledge to our students, but we need to inspire and engage them for success.

“At the heart of EAU is our commitment to keep our programmes world-class and futuristic, empower our students to navigate their programmes and careers with confidence, and blend technology and knowledge for a deep understanding of aviation. As a result, our students enjoy an incredible 85% employability once they graduate.”

The graduates’ future is bright as the aviation industry is projected to record over US$25.7 billion net profit in 2024, according to IATA. According to the Airport Council International, 2024 is expected to be a milestone for global passenger traffic recovery as it touches 9.4 billion passengers, surpassing the 9.2 billion passengers in 2019.

This year, Emirates Aviation University honoured 26 exemplary students across all disciplines. Their accomplishments reflected EAU’s commitment to delivering future aviation leaders.  

The cohort of 302 graduates includes 77 postgraduates and 225 bachelor students, of which 72 are Emirates-sponsored students – both fresh graduates and employees pursuing further qualifications.

With a focus on blending industry and academia, over 100 students received the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to intern with the Emirates Group for over one semester. The sought-after internship programme has one of the region’s largest organisations helping students apply their academic knowledge and skills to everyday, practical corporate work, which makes it relevant to their education and career plans.

About Emirates Aviation University

Since its founding in 1991, EAU, the education arm of the Emirates Group, has become the leading educational institution for aviation studies in the region. The University offers a wide spectrum of undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes in aeronautical engineering, aviation management, logistics & supply management, aviation safety and aviation security studies. It has grown phenomenally in the last three decades, especially across its facilities, faculties, learning resources and global accreditations, including from The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, UK. EAU offers a six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance. Visit https://www.eau.ac.ae/en

•           Three teams blazed a trail to win exciting prizes

Dubai, March 13, 2023 – More than 160 students from 21 high schools across the UAE made a huge splash at Emirates Aviation University’s (EAU) sixth annual Water Rocket Competition, held in collaboration with Boeing.

Emirates Aviation University warmly welcomed the 35 teams, who collaborated and constructed water rockets at the university’s workshop. What’s more, the teams then launched these rockets at an angle of 45 degrees to the greatest distance possible.

Students built the rockets with materials like plastic bottles, foot pumps, clay blocks, electrical wiring tape, grocery bags and plastic sheets – which also brought home the message on repurposing and recycling everyday items. Teams could only power the rockets using water and air pressure propulsion, and were encouraged to design and experiment with creative nose cones and fins.

Working in groups of four or five, the students were given two hours to design, construct, and create optimal aerodynamic conditions. Every team was given two attempts to launch their rockets to the longest distance possible. 

While there were some spectacular successes and some dismal failures, there was a whole lot of learning and fun for everyone. The judging panel from EAU and Boeing had their work cut out for them to deliberate and calibrate the day’s proceedings. The Lance team from St Mary’s Catholic High School won top honours for launching the rocket to a distance of 103 metres. The Eagle 2 team from Islamiya English School came in as first runners up for reaching 96 metres, and the Icarus team from Merryland International School were second runners up for touching 84 metres.

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University, said: “As a premier educational institution, we take our responsibility to promote science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) skills seriously, and we feel that’s best done in a fun, engaging way. This is the sixth edition of the competition, and watching students brainstorm, collaborate, conceive and construct these rockets is an eye-opening experience every year. Congratulations to the winners and everyone who participated – they are among the best and brightest future scientists and engineers. A big thank you to Boeing for their continued support and for making this challenge meaningful and successful yet again.”

Kuljit Ghata-Aura, Boeing President Middle East, Türkiye and Africa, commented: “I am continually inspired by the dedication and innovation of Boeing engineers, and the hope is that more young people decide to embark upon careers in this exciting industry with its significant opportunities. At Boeing we are strong advocates of aligning STEM education with sustainability, and the Emirates Aviation University Water Rocket Competition is a perfect example of that. While learning new technical skills from Boeing engineers during the competition, the students also learned how to reduce, reuse and recycle.” 

The main aim of the Water Rocket Competition is to prepare prospective aviation engineers who are looking to enroll in Emirates Aviation University’s engineering and aviation related programmes.

About Emirates Aviation University (EAU)

Since its founding in 1991, EAU, the education arm of the Emirates Group, has become the leading educational institution for aviation studies in the region. The University offers a wide spectrum of undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes in aeronautical engineering, aviation management, logistics & supply management, aviation safety and aviation security studies. It has grown phenomenally in the last three decades, especially across its facilities, faculties, learning resources and global accreditations, including most recently from The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, UK. EAU offers a six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance. The University has played a major role in meeting increasing demand for skilled and professional aviation specialists regionally and globally. EAU has also helped companies train and develop employees to be at the forefront of trends, technology and transformative forces. At its 32nd graduation ceremony held recently, EAU ushered more than 474 highly qualified graduates, representing 56 nationalities, into the workforce. Visit https://www.eau.ac.ae/en

About Boeing

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company's core values of safety, quality and integrity. Join our team and find your purpose at boeing.com/careers.

The third edition of the careers fair included the likes of the Emirates Group, flydubai, Air Arabia, Airbus, Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd, Lufthansa Technik, Thales, CAE Inc., Royal Aircraft Maintenance, Roeder CSC FZCO, Sky One FZE, Falcon Aviation Services and dnata Logistics.

Around 400 recent graduates and senior students of the University visited the different stalls at the careers fair and grabbed the chance to meet these companies and discover the world of work in aviation.

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University (EAU), said: “We have a sharp focus on bringing industry and academia together. Our careers fair is a major platform for companies, our graduates and current students to connect and network. It opens up a world of opportunities, knowledge, practical info and advice on the different careers in aviation and other industries. Our students are able to leverage these opportunities and advice throughout their lives. This is our first careers fair after the pandemic and the interest among our students and aviation partners was at an all-time high.”

At its 32^nd graduation ceremony held recently, EAU ushered more than 474 highly qualified graduates, representing 56 nationalities, into the workforce.

The University has played a major role in meeting increasing demand for skilled and professional aviation specialists regionally and globally. EAU has also helped companies train and develop employees to be at the forefront of trends, technology and transformative forces.

Since its founding in 1991, EAU has become the leading educational institution for aviation studies in the region. The University offers a wide spectrum of undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes. It has grown phenomenally in the last three decades, especially across its facilities, faculties, learning resources and global accreditations, including most recently from The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, UK. EAU offers a six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance.

Visit https://www.eau.ac.ae/en

Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Emirates Aviation University Vice-Chancellor said: “Warm congratulations to our graduates as we wish them promising and fulfilling careers – they’ve truly made us proud! They will enter their professional lives fully confident of meeting challenges in their chosen careers and creating a positive impact using well-honed abilities, industry knowledge, practical skills, and business ethics acquired during their time with us. 

Emirates Aviation University has played a major role in meeting increasing demand for skilled and professional aviation specialists regionally and globally. The University has also helped companies train and develop employees to be at the forefront of trends, technology and transformative forces.” 

Among the 474 graduates are 115 postgraduates, 321 bachelors and 38 advanced diploma students. It also includes 75 Emirates-sponsored students, including employees pursuing further qualifications. 

Since its founding in 1991, EAU has become the leading educational institution for aviation studies in the region. It has grown phenomenally in the last three decades, especially across its facilities, faculties, learning resources and global accreditations, including most recently from The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education, UK. The scope of the University’s academic programmes have expanded to a wide spectrum of undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes. EAU offers a six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance. 

EAU programmes are recognised and accredited by the following bodies: 
• Ministry of Education – Higher Education Affairs (MOE) 
• The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) 
• The General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) 
• The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), UK 
• The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transportation (CILT), UK 
• The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) 
• The Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) 

Top 10 reasons to join Emirates Aviation University 
1. Established more than three decades ago and has an excellent track record with 25,000+ alumni. 
2. The leading University for aviation studies in the region. 
3. Graduate employability stood at a high 84% in 2021. 
4. Offers a range of training, graduate, postgraduate and research programmes in a range of aviation and non-aviation disciplines. 
5. Recognised and accredited by top education entities locally and globally. 
6. The first non-federal educational institution to receive a 5 Stars QS rating in the region and 5 stars for its MBA in Aviation Management programme. 
7. Faculty from diverse backgrounds – eminent entrepreneurs, policymakers, researchers and consultants – and an impressive student-faculty ratio of 18:1. 
8. 70 state-of-the-art classrooms, 16 fully equipped labs and workshops, digital and print library with over 130,000 e-books and over 13,000 print books, on-campus student accommodation with full facilities. 
9. Opportunity for internships and on-the-job training with top companies. Six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance. 
10. Has the full backing, support and expertise of the Emirates Group. 
 

This year’s topical theme – The Future of Aviation: COVID-19 Pandemic and Challenges – has brought together leaders, professionals, research scholars, students and academia to discuss key strategic issues facing the industry, provide thought leadership and present ground-breaking research findings.

Authors and researchers are presenting around 30 papers on a fascinating range of topics, including passenger experience during the 2022 UK airport delays; aviation and the blockchain; sustainable aviation fuel; advanced urban mobility; women in aviation growth; effects of terminating short-haul routes; digital tech and passenger experience; impact of climate change on aircraft noise; modernising the Chicago convention; challenges, opportunities and the impact of COVID-19.

After the official opening by HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline & Group, keynote speeches from senior executives of the Emirates Group set the scene for the conference.

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor Emirates Aviation University said: “We are building on the success of our previous three global conferences, and are focused on key topics, including sustainable aviation, technical advances, air transport policy and regulation. This conference is the definitive forum to discuss areas of mutual interest with delegates from the aviation industry – a much needed retrospective and an introspection. They bring a wealth of expertise, interesting and essential topics such as service quality, passenger satisfaction, challenges and opportunities post the pandemic.” 

The Emirates Group’s senior executives attributed the UAE’s and Dubai’s rapid recovery to the vision and initiatives of the government to combat the pandemic, its agile, pragmatic approach, logistics and minimal disruption to supply chains, and the focus on innovation and sustainability. Speakers expanded on how the industry and its key players have pivoted during the pandemic, and the impact it has had on projects, initiatives, technologies, and opportunities.

Summary of keynote addresses

Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Chief Operating Officer said the airline continuously monitored the developments around COVID-19 in the UAE and across the globe, and strongly believed there would be greater opportunities and demand for travel post-pandemic. A key investment was in the airline’s approach to hospitality and its roll-out, with employees commencing training to uplift the customer experience. Emirates also focused on enhancing its products and on introducing digital services using advanced technologies. Many initiatives, including digital applications, were introduced to enhance efficiencies in operations. Opportunities for youth to deploy their talents in the digital world, artificial intelligence and data analysis will be the future and of great interest to organizations.

Steve Allen, CEO dnata Group, took the audience through key business learnings during the pandemic, including gauging demand early, the need for timely hiring and investment decisions, adapting products, focusing on a sector approach, and communicating constantly. He cited cautious optimism given the challenges around labour markets worldwide, inflation and economic uncertainty, balanced by travel resilience and Dubai benefiting from a reshaped world economy. dnata’s strategy, is focused on investing in product, people and sustainability to remain a global player, catering to changed customer expectations, and shifting the industry’s narrative from price to quality.

Mahmood Ameen, CEO Emirates Flight Catering, explained the importance of adapting to the new world through next generation process re-engineering, technologies, digitalisation, and a skilled workforce. EKFC’s four key pillars are Sustainability with a focus on product, process and people, creating a better tomorrow for customers, communities, employees and the environment; Food security through quality and retention, cost alerts and smart monitoring; Lean Six Sigma principles through production, wastage control and rationalisation; and Diversification through alternative sourcing, capitalisation, partnerships and investment.

Organised by Emirates Aviation University and hosted in partnership with Dubai Police and Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, this year’s edition of the conference is being held on 21 and 22 November at the university campus.

To view the sessions live, login here:

For more info on Emirates Aviation University, visit: www.eau.ac.ae

Dubai, UAE: 4 August 2022 – If you work in aviation, related research or even if you are just an enthusiast, the 4th edition of the International Aviation Management Conference (IAMC) is the place to be.

The event is a global platform where aviation leaders and professionals, from both industry and academia, come together to discuss key strategic issues facing the industry and present contemporary research findings.

This year’s conference has a topical theme – The Future of Aviation: COVID-19 Pandemic and Challenges. The organisers are calling aviation professionals, academic leaders, research scholars and students to register and submit their research papers and thought leadership pieces before 31 August.

Topics include air transport policy and regulation, airline operation and management, aviation safety and security, aviation finance and economics, airport planning and management, aviation management and strategy, technological advances and impact, women in aviation, aviation law, and aviation sustainability. All submissions must be original material and related to aviation.

At the previous three editions of the conference, participants have presented more than 60 influential research papers showcasing diverse and stimulating subjects ranging from air transport liberalisation, the impact of the Etihad Rail, the impact of passenger satisfaction on brand persona and marketing mix on purchase decisions to serious technical themes, gritty case studies, and complex mathematical modelling made simple.

Attendees can look forward to another exciting edition of ground-breaking research and future industry trends and predictions.

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor Emirates Aviation University said: “The pandemic has been a black swan event and a game-changer for the aviation industry. The conference is the place to be this November to hear from the experts on how the industry and its key players have pivoted, and the impact it has had on projects, initiatives, technology, sustainability and a whole host of concerns and opportunities. It’s a global platform that brings together all the good and the great, and an opportunity to network, collaborate, co-create, and drive key agendas within the aviation ecosystem.”

Organised by Emirates Aviation University, this year’s edition of the conference will be held on 21 and 22 November at the university campus, and headlined by a gala dinner on day one.

This year’s keynote speakers include: Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ Chief Operating Officer; Adnan Kazim, Emirates’ Chief Commercial Officer; and Mahmood Ameen, Chief Executive Officer, Emirates Flight Catering. IAMC 2022 is being hosted in partnership with Dubai Police and Dubai Civil Aviation Authority.

Recently, Emirates Aviation University achieved global accreditation through the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), the UK’s independent quality body and a leader in quality assurance for higher education. The University obtained global accreditation having successfully completed QAA’s International Quality Review (IQR).

To register for the conference or to submit research papers, click here

To browse through previous conference research papers, click here

For more information, please email: IAMC2022@eau.ac.ae

About Emirates Aviation University

Emirates Aviation University (EAU) was established in 1991 by the United Arab Emirates Department of Civil Aviation and was initially named the Dubai Aviation College. The primary purpose of the College was to provide aviation-related training to private students and corporate clients. The University's vision is to be one of the world's leading institutes of higher education in aviation-related disciplines. In July 2022, EAU achieved global quality accreditation through the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA), the UK’s independent quality body and a global leader in quality assurance for higher education.

Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, the EAU commemorated the graduation of over 600 students who have successfully completed their postgraduate and undergraduate degrees in a variety of disciplines including: aviation management, aeronautical engineering, aviation safety/security, logistics and supply chain management, software engineering and aircraft maintenance engineering.

Amongst the graduating cohort were 129 Emirates-sponsored students including employees pursuing further qualifications in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, Software Engineering, Air Transport Management, and Logistics & Supply Chain Management.

Graduates as well as their friends and families joined the online ceremony from over 50 countries.

Professor Ahmad Al Ali, Emirates Aviation University Vice-Chancellor said: “This has been a year unlike any other. The pandemic has been tough for everyone at a human level, and I would like to recognise the enormous effort that my colleagues and our students have made over the past year.

“Our transition to a virtual campus has been swift and successful, thanks to the combined efforts and resilience of our students, faculty members and administrative staff. On behalf of the EAU faculty, I heartily congratulate all our graduates for their achievements and wish them the best of luck in the next phase of their life journeys.”

Since March 2020, lectures and theoretical classes at the EAU are being delivered via interactive e-learning platforms, while practical classes, workshops/labs and final examinations are held on Campus while observing strict health and safety protocols mandated by the UAE Ministry of Education.

Established in 1991, Emirates Aviation University is the academic wing of the Emirates Group; a global travel and tourism conglomerate known worldwide for their commitment to the highest standards of quality in every aspect of business.

The University is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education – Higher Education Affairs and the Human Development Authority and offers an extensive range of educational opportunities designed to provide students with the best aviation related specializations. Students can choose from undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that combine the highest standard of academics with the latest development in the field of aviation.

Over 400 undergraduate and postgraduate students at EAU’s School of Engineering will benefit from the new wind tunnel. As a teaching tool, it will enable them to conduct experiments under different simulated wind force conditions.

The wind tunnel complements the EAU School of Engineering’s curriculum which has a focus on providing hands-on experience and research opportunities for Bachelor degree programmes such as Aerospace Design Projects, Experimental Techniques, and Flight Vehicle Dynamics & Stability; as well as Master’s degree programmes like Computational Fluid Dynamics, Engineering Analysis and Simulation, and Flight Dynamics and Simulation. The resource will also help enrich the courses, for instance with the visualization of flow over airfoils and aircraft, and calculating values such as pressure, lift, drag and others.

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University said: “The wind tunnel is an exciting addition to our educational offering here at EAU. It will not only enhance the academic knowledge of our students but will also provide them with hands-on expertise based on concrete investigation and trials in simulated conditions. I would like to thank Boeing for their support on this project and their continued partnership with Emirates Aviation University to help improve the educational opportunities of our students.”

Dr Ahmad Al Ali added: “We look forward to unveiling more projects in the near future, with the support of Boeing, to continue enriching our curriculum and our students’ experience.”

“We have been partnering with Emirates Aviation University (EAU) since 2017, as part of our commitment to support UAE’s future workforce. Each year, we work together to identify areas of collaboration to further enhance their students’ experiential learning and increase their competitiveness when they graduate. We are pleased that we were able to support EAU this year with a wind tunnel that will help demonstrate the important principles of flow physics in our industry” said Bernard Dunn, Boeing president, Middle East, Turkey and Africa.

The “Wind Tunnel” is one of various EAU projects, community engagements and training resources sponsored by Boeing since 2017. In 2018, the university purchased a CNC Machine used for both academic and co-curricular purposes to aid students in understanding machining processes. Courses such as Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing benefited from the CNC machine for practical demonstration. In 2019 the university purchased two 3D printers which students now use to produce 3D-printed components for their engineering projects. Boeing also fully sponsors the annual Water Rocket Competition, where contestants from different schools across the UAE are challenged to design and construct a rocket that can achieve the greatest distance from a launch angle of 45 degrees.

About Emirates Aviation University:

Established in 1991, Emirates Aviation University is the academic wing of the Emirates Group; a global travel and tourism conglomerate known for their commitment to the highest standards of quality in every aspect of business. The University is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education – Higher Education Affairs and the Human Development Authority and offers an extensive range of educational opportunities designed to provide students with the best aviation related qualifications. Students can choose from vocational, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that combine the highest standard of academics with the latest practical skills in the field of aviation.

About Boeing:

Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners, defense, space and security systems, and service provider of aftermarket support. As America’s biggest manufacturing exporter, the company supports airlines and U.S. and allied government customers in more than 150 countries. Boeing products and tailored services include commercial and military aircraft, satellites, weapons, electronic and defense systems, launch systems, advanced information and communication systems, and performance-based logistics and training.

EAU team will give prospective students detailed information about the application process, programmes and courses, accommodation and fees so that they are able to make informed decisions about their future.

In light of the Covid-19 pandemic, keeping in mind health and safety regulations, EAU has moved students’ activities and events online. More than 350 students recently joined 13 virtual open days hosted by Emirates Aviation University from 2 June to 25 August. The university provided prospective students and their parents insight into the wide variety of courses on offer and answered their different questions.

"Open days are an ideal opportunity for prospective students and their parents to find out more about the University, programmes, facilities and accommodation. COVID-19 pandemic made us explore new ways to stay in contact with our existing students and introduce new students to our programmes. Virtual Open Days have been a great success and we're looking forward to welcoming interested students to our live 1-2-1 consultations,” said Dr. Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University.

Live consultations can booked by visiting the website and completing a form.

The Fall semester starts on 6 September, with induction days for new students being held on 2-3 September. Placing the health and wellbeing of students and staff as top priority, Emirates Aviation University follows all official guidance from the UAE government and the Ministry of Education. All lectures and theory classes will be delivered online until further notice. Only practical classes, workshops, labs, and examinations will continue to be conducted on-campus with strict health measures in place.

Emirates Aviation University also offers a student study package, offering financial benefits and support to students. The package includes 20% savings on costs for university accommodation, 15% discount on programme fees, as well as a waiver for the registration fee. UAE residents enrolling as new students in a full-time undergraduate bachelor degree programme, and UAE residents already registered as an existing students in a full-time programme for a minimum duration of one year can benefit from this generous package. More information on: https://www.eau.ac.ae/en/admissions/new-student-study-packages/

In recognition of their contributions, Emirates Aviation University is also offering healthcare workers and their immediate family members a special 30% scholarship on all programmes starting September 2020. They can apply for this scholarship online, and submit proof of identification or letter from their workplace.

Emirates Aviation University

Established in 1991, Emirates Aviation University is a leading educational institution in the Middle East for aviation related programmes. The University is the academic wing of the Emirates Group; a global travel and tourism conglomerate known worldwide for their commitment to the highest standards of quality in every aspect of business.

The University is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education – Higher Education and offers an extensive range of educational opportunities designed to provide students with the best aviation related specializations.

EAU offers a new six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance.

For more information on Emirates Aviation University, visit: www.eau.ac.ae

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University said: “We are pleased to show our support for healthcare workers who have made an immense contribution to our community especially during this difficult time. We are deeply grateful and appreciative of their efforts and hope that this gesture will help those who want to advance their careers with higher education.”

Healthcare workers or their family members who wish to benefit from the discount, must apply online https://www.eau.ac.ae/en/application-forms/application-selection/ and submit proof of identification or letter from their workplace.

Emirates Aviation University has been recently awarded an overall score of 5 Stars by QS Stars University Ratings for its outstanding performance and academic excellence across a wide range of categories. The university is the first non-federal educational institution to receive a 5 Stars QS rating in the region, achieving 5 stars in teaching, employability, facilities, inclusiveness and social responsibilities and 4 stars in academic development and internationalisation categories. The university also received 5 stars for its MBA in Aviation Management programme.

Emirates Aviation University

Established in 1991, Emirates Aviation University is a leading educational institution in the Middle East for aviation related programmes. The University is the academic wing of the Emirates Group; a global travel and tourism conglomerate known worldwide for their commitment to the highest standards of quality in every aspect of business.

The University is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education – Higher Education and offers an extensive range of educational opportunities designed to provide students with the best aviation related specializations.

EAU offers a new six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance.

The university is the first non-federal educational institution to receive a 5 Stars QS rating in the region, achieving 5 stars in teaching, employability, facilities, inclusiveness and social responsibilities and 4 stars in academic development and internationalisation categories. The university also received 5 stars for its MBA in Aviation Management programme.

Of the 129 overall QS star rated institutions in the Arab Region, only five, including EAU, are rated as 5 Stars. Approximately 580 universities are evaluated globally by QS, of which 48 universities are rated as 5 stars.

Emirates Aviation University also received the UAE Ministry of Education accreditation for four of its new Applied Bachelor in Engineering programmes. The programmes are: Aerospace Engineering, Avionics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Aircraft Maintenance Engineering as well as the Bachelor of Business Administration in Global Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline and Group said: “These are outstanding achievements for Emirates Aviation University that reflect the hard work and dedication of the faculty who have worked hard to make it an educational, world-class institution of distinction. I would like to congratulate the team at EAU, and hope they continue with their commitment to fostering a culture of creativity, innovation and continuous improvement.”

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive Emirates Airline and Group said: “These are outstanding achievements for Emirates Aviation University that reflect the hard work and dedication of the faculty who have worked hard to make it an educational, world-class institution of distinction. I would like to congratulate the team at EAU, and hope they continue with their commitment to fostering a culture of creativity, innovation and continuous improvement.”

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University said: “We are very pleased to be recognised with the QS 5 Stars rating and to receive the UAE Ministry of Education accreditation of four of our programmes. These achievements will open up new and wonderful opportunities for the university to build on the learning experience we provide to our students, and we will work hard to attain further successes.”

QS Stars is a rating system which was inaugurated In the United Kingdom and provides a detailed appraisal of an educational institution, and is used as an essential tool for prospective students to identify which universities rank highest in specific fields of study. Universities and educational institutions are ranked on criteria like program strength, facilities, graduate employability, social responsibility, inclusiveness, amongst others.

Emirates Aviation University

Established in 1991, Emirates Aviation University is a leading educational institution in the Middle East for aviation related programmes. The University is the academic wing of the Emirates Group; a global travel and tourism conglomerate known worldwide for their commitment to the highest standards of quality in every aspect of business.

The University is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education – Higher Education and offers an extensive range of educational opportunities designed to provide students with the best aviation related specializations.

EAU offers a new six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance.

QS Stars University Ratings

QS Stars understands that universities are different to one another and therefore need to be assessed on a range of categories that recognize distinct strengths. It also recognizes that each student is looking for something different, and not all universities – even the highest ranked institutions – suit every student.

Using QS Stars when searching for your future program will help you understand which universities have performed well against a comprehensive list of indicators, allowing you to match your interests to the universities that are strong in the topics that matter to you.

In the methodology used for QS Stars, universities are evaluated in dozens of indicators across at least eight categories. After the assessment, universities are awarded with an overall Star result which ranges from 0 to 5+ Stars, depending on the number of points achieved through the evaluation.

For more information on the QS Stars rating, please click here.

The challenge, which took place at Emirates Aviation University’s campus in Dubai Academic City, has become famously interesting to students within science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) stream. To win the challenge, participating students were asked to design and construct a rocket with the best aerodynamic design that can cover the greatest distance from a launch pad set at 45 degrees with applied pressure of 50PSI.

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University said: “The Water Rocket Challenge targets high school students and was developed to allow them to broaden their creativity and further experiment in the field of aerodynamics. We congratulate the participants on completing the challenge and are delighted to see the capabilities of our young and smart students. We thank Boeing for their support and for making this challenge a success”.

Students from Al Maaref Private School Dubai came out as the winners, achieving the distance of 97.3 metres with their uniquely-designed rocket while Taryam American Private School Sharjah came in as a second runner up achieving the distance of 103.5 meters. The final result was based on two factors; distance and rocket design.

“We are extremely proud of this initiative and our partnership with Emirates Aviation University. Every year we leave impressed and inspired by what students are able to build with just their creativity and own two hands. Through programs like this, students gain the opportunity to apply the theories they learn in class and gain essential skills needed to positively contribute to UAE’s growing aerospace industry,” said Bernard Dunn, president of Boeing Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey

Operating on the principle of Newton’s third law of motion, the water rocket concept was meant to prepare all budding engineers when enrolling in any of Emirates Aviation University’s (EAU) many Engineering and aviation related programmes. EAU’s Engineering programmes include Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical Engineering, Aerospace Technology, Avionics Technology, Aviation Maintenance Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Software Engineering, Optimisation and Statistics.

Emirates Aviation University:

Established in 1991, Emirates Aviation University is a leading educational institution in the Middle East for aviation related programmes. The University is the academic wing of the Emirates Group; a global travel and tourism conglomerate known worldwide for their commitment to the highest standards of quality in every aspect of business.

The University is licensed by the UAE Ministry of Education – Higher Education and offers an extensive range of educational opportunities designed to provide students with the best aviation related specializations.

EAU offers a new six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance.

Boeing Company:

Boeing is the world's largest aerospace company and leading manufacturer of commercial jetliners, defense, space and security systems, and service provider of aftermarket support. As America’s biggest manufacturing exporter, the company supports airlines and U.S. and allied government customers in more than 150 countries. Boeing products and tailored services include commercial and military aircraft, satellites, weapons, electronic and defense systems, launch systems, advanced information and communication systems, and performance-based logistics and training.

Boeing’s relationship with the Middle East extends back to 1945. Since then, Boeing has established a number of offices across the region, first in Riyadh in 1982, then a dedicated Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS) office in Abu Dhabi in 1999, a regional headquarters in Dubai in 2005 and a new office in Doha in 2010. In addition, Boeing has field service teams across the region and two distribution centers for airplane spare parts in Dubai.

For further information, please visit the websites: www.boeing-me.com or www.boeing.com, or follow us on Twitter @BoeingMidEast

The graduation ceremony was attended by Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University, Mohammed Mattar Divisional Senior Vice President Emirates Airport Services, Adel Ahli Manager Engineering Training, Professor Liza Bayliss- Patt from Coventry University, officials and government representatives, family and friends of the graduates.

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University said: “The graduation ceremony is one of the most significant and meaningful events in the University’s calendar, I would like to congratulate all students and wish them all the luck in their careers. EAU continues to grow both nationally and internationally. We are proud to have become the first university in the region to be awarded the Royal Aeronautical Society validating our BSc Aeronautical Engineering and BEng Aerospace Technology/ Mechanical Engineering programmes. Further we have achieved European Aviation Safety Agency "EASA" accreditation for our Applied Bachelor in Aircraft Maintenance Engineering. Both these accreditations provides graduates with the necessary skills to be able to excel in the aviation engineering industry anywhere in the world.”

Graduates from the School of Engineering showcased their aviation-related final projects to guests.

Established in 1991, Emirates Aviation University is a leading educational institution in the Middle East for aeronautical engineering, aviation management, business management, and aviation safety & security studies. The University is the academic wing of the Emirates Group; a global travel and tourism conglomerate known worldwide for their commitment to the highest standards of quality in every aspect of business.

The graduation ceremony was attended by Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University; Amira Al Falasi, Vice President HR Talent Acquisition & National Talent Development; Ahmad Safa, Divisional Senior Vice President for Emirates Engineering; Dr Amer Sharif, Vice Chancellor of the Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences; Zaid Al Hazmi, CEO of Lufthansa Technik Middle East and other VIPs, government representatives, family and friends of the graduates.

Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University said: “The graduation ceremony is a significant event on our calendar to celebrate the achievements of our students. We extend our congratulations to them as they take the next steps towards rewarding careers. EAU provides students with vocational, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that combine the highest academic standards with the latest developments in the field of aviation. Their success is a reflection on our strategy that combines international education with industry best practices.”

Guests at the graduation ceremony were also able to view exciting aviation-related projects displayed in the university’s foyer. These projects were the work of final year students from the School of Engineering, including those pursuing studies in BSc Aeronautical Engineering, BEng Aerospace Technology, BEng Avionics Technology and BSc Software Engineering programmes.

Presentations included:

• a runway foreign object debris detector drone for the safe landing and take-off of aircraft;
• a morphing wing application, intended to reduce drag and increase efficiency of fuel consumption on aircraft;
• a drone capture concept which works by throwing a net on unexpected drones flying in restricted areas;
• a concept for a long range solar powered aircraft, printed entirely from 3D materials with solar cells attached on its wing that charge its battery to increase flight time;  and
• Jet Kart, a gas turbine powered kart which generates 12 - 14 kg of thrust that moves other objects along.

Since 1991, the university has graduated more than 16000 students across diverse disciplines and areas of study, helping to support the aviation industry in the UAE, among other sectors.

Emirates Aviation University announced recently that ten of its academic programmes have now been accredited by The Royal Aeronautical Society. The latest international recognition bolsters the university’s credentials as the educational institution offering the most extensive range of accredited aviation programmes in the region, reinforcing its focus on quality education, training and career progression for professionals in the industry. The accredited programmes include: Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering in Aerospace Technology, Avionics Technology, Applied Mechanical Engineering as well as Aircraft Maintenance, in addition to Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aviation Safety, Aviation Security and Unmanned Aerospace Systems Design.

Last year, EAU received accreditation from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) as a Maintenance Training Organisation. This official certification provided the university with significant recognition on the national and international level as the first educational institution in the UAE to have its Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Programme approved by EASA, in addition to the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority.

EAU programmes are also accredited by different national and international institutions including the UAE Ministry of Education, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) , the Chartered Institute for Logistics and Transport-UK (MBA aviation management and MBA logistics and supply chain management), the Royal Aeronautical Engineering Society, Royal Aeronautical Society – UK (engineering programmes) and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development - CIPD (MA HR management).

Another recent Emirates Aviation University initiative is the six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for third year students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance and are enrolled in the university’s upcoming fall semester. The coveted internship programme with one of the region’s largest and most successful organisations will help students combine academic study with practical, applied experience relevant to their education and career plans.

Established in 1991, Emirates Aviation University is a leading educational institution in the Middle East for aeronautical engineering, aviation management, business management, and aviation safety & security studies. The University is the academic wing of the Emirates Group; a global travel and tourism conglomerate known worldwide for their commitment to the highest standards of quality in every aspect of business.

The accredited programmes include: Bachelor of Science in Aeronautical Engineering, Bachelor of Engineering in Aerospace Technology, Avionics Technology, Applied Mechanical Engineering as well as Aircraft Maintenance, in addition to Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanical Engineering

Moreover, three master degree programmes; MSc in Aviation Safety, MSc in Aviation Security and MSc in Unmanned Aerospace Systems Design have been awarded the status of “Recognised” as programmes providing further learning towards Chartered Engineer, CEng registration.

The programmes underwent a rigorous evaluation process which considered course delivery, the level and standards of practical resources available to students, advancement of learning provided by student secondment to the Emirates maintenance facility, general support for students and the promotion of aviation and engineering through various outreach activities.

The Royal Aeronautical Society accredits academic programmes that reinforce understanding, knowledge and a strong skill set that underpin professional competence to help graduates on their way to registration as Chartered Engineers (CEng) or as Incorporated Engineers (IEng).

EAU programmes are also accredited by different national and international institutions including the UAE Ministry of Education, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) , the Chartered Institute for Logistics and Transport-UK (MBA aviation management and MBA logistics and supply chain management),  the European Union Aviation Safety Agency - EASA (aircraft maintenance programmes) and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development - CIPD (MA HR management).

Emirates Aviation University recently announced a new six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for third year students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance and are enrolled in the university’s upcoming fall semester. The coveted internship programme with one of the region’s largest and most successful organisations will help students combine academic study with practical, applied experience relevant to their education and career plans.

Established in 1991, Emirates Aviation University is a leading educational institution in the Middle East for aeronautical engineering, aviation management, business management, and aviation safety & security studies. The University is the academic wing of the Emirates Group; a global travel and tourism conglomerate known worldwide for their commitment to the highest standards of quality in every aspect of business.

The Royal Aeronautical Society, also known as the RAeS, is a British multi-disciplinary professional institution dedicated to the global aerospace community. Established in 1866, the Society has been at the forefront of developments in aerospace, seeking to promote the highest professional standards and provide a central forum for sharing knowledge.

Amongst the range of student offerings that the University will showcase at the event, is a new six-month internship programme with the Emirates Group for third year students who demonstrate extraordinary academic performance and are enrolled in the university’s upcoming fall semester.

The coveted internship programme with one of the region’s most successful organisations, will help students combine academic study with practical, applied experience relevant to their education and career plans. Students enrolled in the internship programme will also receive a monthly stipend of 3,000 AED to cover their costs, along with accumulating fifteen credit hours.

“EAU proactively invests in its students and encourages them to gain valuable work and research experience through a variety of initiatives including internship programmes, and we are delighted to now offer such an opportunity with the Emirates Group. Internships can provide students with a better view of their career paths, help them develop their skills, and network with professionals in the field, giving them an edge in the job market,” said Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice-Chancellor of Emirates Aviation University.

“The internship programme illustrates the strong links and longstanding partnership between Emirates Group and EAU and reaffirms the university’s commitment to a long-term strategic vision to develop aviation talent in the UAE and our broader region,” said Wayne Davies, Senior Vice President, Emirates HR Business Partnership.

Last year, EAU received accreditation from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) as a Maintenance Training Organisation. This official certification provided the university with significant recognition on the national and international level as the first educational institution in the UAE to have its Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Programme approved by EASA, in addition to the UAE General Civil Aviation Authority.

EAU programmes are also accredited by different national and international institutions including the Ministry of Education, Knowledge and Human Development Authority, the UAE Civil Aviation Authority, the Chartered Institute for Logistics and Transport-UK (MBA aviation management and MBA logistics and supply chain management), the Royal Aeronautical Engineering Society, Royal Aeronautical Society – UK (engineering programmes) and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development - CIPD (MA HR management).

Emirates Aviation University (EAU) also announced the launch of a new research centre and doctoral training college in collaboration with Coventry University last year. Building on an existing partnership between EAU and Coventry, through which the two institutions have run joint postgraduate programmes in the aerospace field for over a decade, the venture saw PhD students under the supervision of both universities.

Dubai is home to over 200 nationalities and is one of the safest cities in the world. Students can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while pursuing their academic and career goals.

Early registration incentives for the fall semester are available until 15 May 2019.

EAU students had the opportunity to receive consultations, participate in mock interviews and gain professional advice as well as network with potential employers in different fields such as aviation, business, information technology, engineering, communications, governmental, and more.