The British Council, in partnership with the British Embassy in the UAE, has launched a new initiative to support and celebrate women leaders within the country’s education sector. The program, part of the global Alumni UK initiative, aims to highlight the achievements of women in education, foster collaboration, and inspire the next generation of leaders.
Fostering Collaboration and Inspiration
The partnership was kicked off with an inaugural event at Middlesex University Dubai under the theme ‘Women Leading Education: Inspiration, Impact & Global Learning’. The gathering brought together senior officials, academics, policymakers, and emerging professionals from leading institutions, including Khalifa University, Heriot-Watt University Dubai, The Dawood Foundation, and members of the Alumni UK community.
The event series is designed to celebrate graduates of UK universities who have become influential figures in teaching, research, and institutional development across the UAE. Annually, over 8,000 students from the UAE study in the UK, with many returning to drive innovation and contribute to national priorities.
The UK-UAE Education Partnership
Sarah Mooney, British Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, highlighted the deep-rooted educational ties between the two nations.
“The UK UAE long standing partnership is deeply rooted in education. I am proud that for decades, UK universities have welcomed thousands of UAE students. Many of them women who have gone on to become leaders in government, academia, health, technology, diplomacy, culture, and business.”
A panel discussion featuring Professor Fehmida Hussain of Middlesex University Dubai, Dr Habiba Al Safar of Khalifa University, Professor Hind Zantout of Heriot-Watt University Dubai, and philanthropist Sabrina Dawood of The Dawood Foundation explored the evolving landscape of education and the role international learning played in their leadership journeys.
Driving Innovation Through Research
During the panel, Dr Habiba Al Safar of Khalifa University emphasized how research is becoming the core engine for educational advancement in the UAE.
“So today, scientific research is no longer an extension of education. Actually, it is the engine driving the scientific research. Actually, it’s driving our education. And if you can see in the UAE, we are doing remarkable changes in transforming the education here, where you can see research innovation and the national priorities are aligned.”
A Global Mindset for Future Leaders
Reflecting on the launch, Martin Daltry OBE, British Council Country Director UAE, stated that the initiative embodies the Council’s goals of creating meaningful connections and leadership opportunities.
“Women are shaping the future of education across the Emirates, and many of those leading this transformation are proud alumni of UK universities. By bringing these voices together, we are not only celebrating their achievements but also empowering the next generation to step forward with confidence, ambition and a global mindset.”
About the British Council
The British Council is the UK’s international organisation for cultural relations and educational opportunities. It supports peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. This is achieved through work in arts and culture, education and the English language. The British Council works with people in over 200 countries and territories and is on the ground in more than 100 countries.
Source: Zawya
