Middlesex University Dubai held its 13th Graduation Ceremony on Saturday 17 November 2018 at Jumeriah Beach Hotel’s Safinah Ballroom, with Chief Guest, H.E Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan. Across the two ceremonies 800 students were awarded degrees across a range of disciplines including film and media, business, computer engineering, IT, law, psychology, accounting and finance and HR at Bachelor’s and Master’s level.
The first ceremony honoured leading businessman and philanthropist Mr Yusuff Ali M.A., Chairman and Managing Director of Lulu Group International, for his contribution to the United Arab Emirates. Mr Ali was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from the University in recognition of his outstanding service to the sector and the wider community. Chief Guest H.E Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan addressed the graduates and dignitaries, stressing the importance of education, which defines the character of an individual, and that investing in education is investing in future that also shapes value of citizens. Sheikh Nahyan further added the future of the world is dependent on students and urged student to continuously learn which is a never-ending process.
Upon receiving the Honorary Doctorate, Mr Ali said “having worked in the region’s retail sector for over two decades, I’ve seen Dubai transform into the megacity it is today, and much of the credit goes to the Government of Dubai and its forward thinking leadership. I feel honoured to be recognised for my work from a prestigious institution such as Middlesex University Dubai, and I dedicate this to my family and everyone who has worked with me in making Lulu a brand loved by many across the UAE. I would like to wish all the graduating students continued success as they go on to become the professionals, creators and entrepreneurs of tomorrow”.
More than 300 students were also awarded and congratulated by H.E Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, in the presence of H.E Dr Tayeb Kamali, H.E Hamad Abdulla Al Shamsi, Chairman of Amanat Holding, Dr Shamsheer Viyalil, Vice Chairman, Managing Director and CEO of Amanat along with other key dignitaries.
HM Consul General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, Andrew Jackson from the British Embassy Dubai was the Guest of Honour at the second ceremony, where he applauded recent graduates for all their hard work. “I would like to commend Middlesex University Dubai for playing an important role in shaping the future of these young and professional minds. I congratulate all of the graduates and wish them every success as they begin a new chapter in their lives”, he said.
“The University’s Annual Graduation Ceremony is a wonderful opportunity for us to celebrate the hard work, determination and dedication of our students and the outstanding contribution of our faculty,” said Dr Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro Vice-Chancellor and Director of Middlesex University Dubai. “On behalf of all of us at the University, I would like to congratulate the Class of 2018 and express our pride in their achievements, as we wish them all the best for their future as our Alumni.”
Graduates of the University become members of Middlesex University Dubai’s Alumni Association and are able to maintain a lifelong connection with the University, sharing their experience and expertise whilst enjoying exclusive offers, events, networking and volunteering opportunities.
For more details about Middlesex University Dubai, please visit www.mdx.ac.ae.
