Online degrees fast catching on in Dubai

Ali Ghannadan, who handles two jobs — as an English teacher and as owner of a travel agency — said that by studying online he can maximise his time.

“It’s much better than sitting in class, you learn a lot more,” he said. “You have access to books, magazines, databases — more than a normal university would.”

Public Relations Director Riham Osama said the flexibility and convenience of studying online meant she was able to complete assignments and had access to resources while she was travelling.

Universitas 21 Global is an online university in Dubai supported by 20 parent universities which must approve every component of the degree.

The university, which currently offers an MBA programme and business management, has plans to launch further online degrees including hospitality and tourism, after programmes were received well in India and in Dubai.

U21 Global Assistant Professor and Co-director Dr Kanishka Bedi was in Dubai recently and discussed the potential of online degrees.

“Professionals find it difficult to go for a normal campus-based degree,” he said. “Gone are the days when people had to spend time on campus. It allows people to continue their job and study.” Bedi said he saw reason for the success of online degrees in the UAE because of the presence of professionals and large corporate companies.