Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai has joined the prestigious SAP University Alliance, enabling the university to incorporate SAP software into its teaching and research activities. The official signing ceremony was held at MDX Dubai on 27 November, 2024 between Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Middlesex University and Director of Middlesex University Dubai, and Marwan Zeineddine, Managing Director of SAP UAE. SAP software is a comprehensive suite of enterprise resource planning (ERP) and business management solutions, designed to help organisations streamline and integrate key business functions. These functions include finance, human resources, supply chains, manufacturing, and customer relationship management.The partnership allows the university to integrate SAP into its curriculum and equips students with the tools they need to succeed academically and professionally. This collaboration opens up exciting new opportunities for students, from hands-on learning to connecting with a global network of like-minded peers and experts, and educational trips to SAP headquarters in Germany. Professor Cedwyn said: “Our goal is to enhance the employability prospects of our graduates. Joining the SAP University Alliances allows us to integrate practical technology training into the curriculum and significantly boost students' career opportunities after graduation.” Professor Cody Morris Paris, Deputy Director of Research & Business and Head of the Business School, emphasised the significance of the partnership during the signing ceremony. He said: “SAP extends beyond Business and IT programmes and encompasses a broad range of disciplines and academic areas. My thanks go to Dr Sreejith Balasubramanian, Associate Professor and Head of the Centre for Supply Chain Excellence and Mahnoush Gharehdash, Lecturer in Business School for spearheading the collaboration.”Dr Sreejith said: “The framework of cooperation allows MDX Dubai students invaluable access to SAP software, specifically their SAP S/4HANA, Analytics Cloud and other applications, boosting their skills that are in demand all over the world.”Marwan said: “By becoming the latest UAE-based university to join the SAP University Alliances programme, Middlesex University Dubai is taking a significant step in preparing students for the demands of the digital economy, particularly in fields like AI and advanced analytics. “This collaboration provides access to cutting-edge SAP solutions, real-world learning opportunities, and invaluable industry connections. We are proud to support the university in nurturing future leaders who will drive innovation and sustainability in intelligent enterprises.”Many of the programmes that will benefit from this alliance are still accepting applications to start in January. Find out which ones here.

Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai marks a significant milestone this year with celebrations kicking off to celebrate the institution’s 20th anniversary in Dubai on 17 November 2024 at the iconic Jumeirah Burj Al Arab hotel.The evening was a memorable celebration of the university’s remarkable journey since its inception in 2004; what began with just 28 students two decades ago has now grown into a thriving global community of over 6,300 students, with its roots firmly planted in Dubai's educational landscape.The grand commemoration brought together distinguished guests, including university leadership, students, alumni, faculty, staff, partners, and key stakeholders. The night began with an opening address from Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Middlesex University and Director of Middlesex University Dubai, who reflected on the institution’s journey and its incredible growth over the years. Visiting from London for the occasion, Professor Shân Wareing, Vice-Chancellor of Middlesex University, spoke about the university’s strong collaboration between its campuses in London, Dubai and Mauritius, and the role MDX Dubai has played in shaping the university's global reputation, while Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Janet Jones awarded some key staff with well-deserved long service awards. The first awards were given to Ayad Salim, Government Relations Manager; Lulu Baddar, Senior Lecturer and Campus Co-ordinator for Tourism; and Engie Bashir, Senior Lecturer for Computer Engineering and Informatics, for their exemplary long service and being a driving force behind their respective departments, with each member of staff serving 19, 18 and 17 years respectively. A special award was then presented to Professor Ajit Karnik, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to research, teaching, and mentorship over the past 15 years. Professor Ajit was awarded the title of Emeritus Professor earlier this year, a first for MDX Dubai. Professor Cody Morris Paris, Deputy Director of Research and Business, received an award for his dedication, visionary leadership, and exceptional contributions to the business school which has been instrumental to the success of MDX Dubai.The final award of the night was presented to long standing partners of MDX Dubai, Amanat Holdings, for their support, belief in the university and unwavering commitment to education.Alumna Fathima Shakoor shared her personal journey and the impact that MDX Dubai had on her success, her story serving as a reminder of the countless graduates who have gone on to achieve remarkable things across the world. The celebrations included a dance performance and a spectacular fireworks display, illuminating the Dubai sky in a fitting tribute to the university's two decades of excellence.MDX Dubai has come a long way since its early days, expanding its reach with a second campus in Dubai International Academic City and earning two prestigious 5-star KHDA ratings. The institution has also been recognised as the largest UK university in Dubai for four consecutive years, and, most importantly, has seen over 10,000 graduates pass through its doors, each one contributing to its legacy of success.To honour the milestone, MDX Dubai have been running a campaign titled ‘20 Years, 20 Voices,’ highlighting the diverse experiences of those who have been part of the university’s journey. The series features inspiring stories from staff, students, alumni, and partners, offering a unique insight into the people who have shaped and been shaped by the university over the past two decades.As the university looks toward the next 20 years, it remains firmly committed to its core values of academic excellence, social responsibility, and student success. With a continued focus on innovation, growth, and shaping the leaders of tomorrow, MDX Dubai is poised to build on its legacy. Learn more about the university’s past, present and exciting vision for the future.

Middlesex University Dubai and the Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply (CIPS), the world’s largest professional body for procurement and supply, have made a collaboration agreement to advance the procurement and supply chain profession.The collaboration was announced at the Procurement and Supply Chain Symposium on 31 October at MDX Dubai. The symposium’s theme ‘Preparing Next Generation Procurement and Supply Chain Leaders’ provided insights into the procurement and supply chain skills needed to navigate today’s complex business environment.It featured top industry speakers Sam Achampong, Regional Director, CIPS AMEA; Hariharan Laxminarayan, Head of Professional Development, CIPS MENA; Sneha Susan, Head of Supply Chain Development, The Kraft Heinz Company; Faiq Ali, Procurement Director and ISO Lead Auditor; and Varun Malik, CEO, Konsalidön.  They explored various initiatives aimed at equipping graduates and industry professionals with dynamic skills and competencies needed to excel in this field. The event was moderated by Dr Sreejith Balasubramanian, Associate Professor within the Business School and Head of the Centre for Supply Chain Excellence, MDX Dubai; and Mahnoush Gharehdash, Lecturer in Operations and Supply Chain Management, MDX Dubai.Additionally, MDX Dubai’s BA Business Management, Daytime MBA, and Executive MBA supply chain pathways have achieved the prestigious CIPS accreditation, allowing graduates from these programmes to apply for MCIPS status upon demonstrating at least three years of relevant work experience.Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro-Vice Chancellor of Middlesex University and Director of Middlesex University Dubai said, “The employability of our graduates is our key focus, and this partnership will help us achieve that. Our graduates will be able to make impactful contributions from day one in their professional roles.” Dr Sreejith said: “The CIPS accreditation validates the rigour and industry relevance of our programmes, ensuring our students are well-prepared to meet the evolving demands of the procurement and supply chain sector. This accreditation not only enhances our graduates’ employability but also aligns our curriculum with globally recognised standards in procurement and supply chain.”All of our CIPS accredited programmes are currently accepting applications for students to start in January. Apply today.