Our culture of inclusivity is central to the University’s core values and will be the foundation of our Dubai campus. The opening of the University of Birmingham Dubai signifies exciting opportunities to increase global collaboration and connectivity across diverse cultures. This provides a platform for our staff and students to further develop their cultural intelligence to interact and work effectively as members of a global university community.
Today, our campuses in Birmingham constitute a community of over 150 nationalities. It is paramount for any leading global university, like the University of Birmingham, to attract and retain top talent. This can only be made possible if we nurture an environment within which individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and excel.
This vision is best exemplified in Dubai’s population, with 90% of its 2.7 million citizens calling the thriving city home as expatriates. It is, however, also crucial to ensure that local norms and customs relating to expectations and etiquette followed by the Dubai Emirate are appropriately and duly regarded by all members of the University. We recognise that this imposes a responsibility on the University to support our students as they become aware of the context and practices in Dubai.
While there are areas that understandably differ between cultures, the emphasis on tolerance and inclusivity is a shared value of our societies. Our Dubai campus will follow the same standards and principles as in Birmingham where equality is promoted, diversity is valued, and discriminatory behaviour is not tolerated. We are committed to safeguarding respect, fairness, and dignity of all individuals within our global operations.
Dr Sammy C.H. Li
Equality and Diversity Advisor for Students
“Equality and diversity for students is about recognising the different circumstances of each student and addressing disadvantages that may affect how they can participate in their learning and development. No one should be subject to poorer life and educational choices because of who they are.
Contact us: studentequality@contacts.bham.ac.uk”