In a ceremony held under the patronage and attendance of Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ), the University of Rochester Technology – Dubai, located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, celebrated the graduation of its 14th cohort, comprising 300 graduates across 15 academic programs at both the undergraduate and master's levels.

During the event, Sheikh Ahmed emphasized the significance of education in empowering youth to confidently navigate their futures, armed with advanced knowledge and skills that align with rapid global transformations.

He stated, "Investing in human capital is fundamental to achieving the goals of the UAE Vision 2071 and establishing Dubai's position as one of the best cities globally for living, working, and innovation."

He further expressed pride in the university's development, noting it as a model of effective partnerships between academic institutions and specialized economic zones that contribute to an advanced educational environment that supports Dubai’s economic future.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Sheikh Ahmed reiterated the celebration of 300 graduates equipped to lead future growth and innovation in various sectors, reinforcing the commitment to fostering generations that will contribute to Dubai's long-term economic and social vision.

Abdul Rahman Saleh Al Saleh, Chairman of the University of Rochester Technology – Dubai, stated, "We are committed to providing a world-class educational environment that enhances Dubai’s position as a regional leader in higher education through curricula that directly connect with market needs and sustainable economic and social development trends."

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, CEO of DIEZ, discussed the university's partnership as a key element in developing a leading economic and knowledge-based ecosystem in the region, which aims to create quality opportunities and empower a new generation of leaders and innovators.

He described the university as an essential building block for developing long-term economic infrastructure, a hub for entrepreneurial ideas, and a catalyst for research and development culture, aligning with Dubai’s priorities on local and national levels, especially in areas of digital transformation, smart energy, and sustainable cities.

Dr. Youssef Al Assaf, President of the University of Rochester Technology – Dubai, expressed pride in graduating a new class of qualified scientific talent.

He noted the university's continued growth as an educational center that fosters creativity and enhances applied research partnerships across various sectors.

This year’s graduating class covered a diverse range of 15 academic programs, including eight undergraduate disciplines such as Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Marketing, Global Business Management, Finance, Cybersecurity, and Computing and Information Technology.

The ceremony also marked the graduation of students from seven master’s programs in fields including Data Analytics, Smart Cities, Future Foresight and Planning, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Management, Electrical Engineering, and Cybersecurity.

Since its establishment in 2010, the University of Rochester Technology – Dubai has seen over 2,100 graduates from its various bachelor's, master's, and diploma programs.

This academic year, the university introduced a new Bachelor’s program in Modern Media Design, focusing on interactive design and platform development.

It is also preparing to launch new master's and bachelor's programs in areas such as Health Informatics, Advertising and Public Relations, Health Management, and Integrated Media as part of its newly approved expansion plans.

Recently, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum approved the second phase of the expansion project for the University of Rochester Technology - Dubai, with an investment exceeding 313 million dirhams, covering over 85,000 square meters.

This expansion will increase the campus's total area to over 124,000 square meters, enhancing capacity by 115% to accommodate around 4,500 students, including the addition of nine new academic and administrative buildings and advanced educational facilities, reinforcing the university’s position as a global center for innovation and scientific research.

The DIEZ will implement this project in two phases, with the first phase expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2027, while the second phase is anticipated to finish by the third quarter of 2028, bringing the total investment in university buildings since its inception to over 520 million dirhams.