In April, Gesa Heym, Head of the Student Mobility Unit at Freie Universität Berlin and Hoda El-Mahgoub, Head of the Regional Cairo Liaison Office visited three prominent universities in the United Arab Emirates: the United Arab Emirates University, the American University in Dubai (AUD), and the American University in the Emirates (AUE).

The main focus of the visit was to explore opportunities for student exchange and broader academic collaboration between Freie Universität Berlin and the partner institutions. Discussions highlighted a strong mutual interest in developing new avenues for academic mobility and cooperation. Student exchanges offer participants from both countries the chance to broaden their academic horizons, gain valuable intercultural experience and build networks that will support them throughout their careers.

Another highlight of the trip was the visit to the German International School Dubai (DISD). The vibrant, diverse and international student community at the DISD reflected the dynamic spirit present throughout the UAE — an environment that would offer exciting new perspectives for students from Freie Universität Berlin as well.

In addition to university visits, the delegation held fruitful talks with representatives of the German Embassy in Abu Dhabi, discussing potential future activities and the broader opportunities for German-UAE academic collaboration.

Freie Universität Berlin offers a wide range of opportunities for international students: alongside numerous programs taught in German, the university offers approximately 20 Master's programs taught entirely in English. Furthermore, programs such as the Freie Universität Berlin International Summer and Winter University (FUBiS) and the FU-BEST European Studies Program provide attractive short-term study options for students interested in studying in Germany and gaining deeper insights into German society, culture, and academics.

We sincerely thank all our partners and hosts for the warm welcome and the productive discussions. We look forward to continuing the conversations and building strong academic ties between Freie Universität Berlin and universities in the UAE.