The Pan IIM Alumni Forum in Dubai celebrates India-UAE ties, AI-driven talent innovation, and the upcoming IIM Ahmedabad Dubai campus.
Dubai: The Pan IIM Alumni Network – Middle East Chapter convened a powerful forum under the theme Human Capital in the Age of AI Economy, spotlighting India-UAE collaboration and the transformative role of artificial intelligence in the future of work. Over 2000 IIM alumni, government officials, and thought leaders gathered in Dubai to share insights into talent, innovation, and the evolving education landscape.
A highlight of the event was the announcement of IIM Ahmedabad’s first overseas campus, set to open in Dubai by September 2025—a historic milestone for any Indian Institute of Management. The Dubai campus will offer a one-year full-time MBA for global professionals, initially located in Dubai International Academic City before transitioning to a permanent site by 2029.
The keynote session featured Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, and H.E. Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation. Both underscored the strategic importance of educational and economic ties. Ambassador Sudhir noted, “The IIM Ahmedabad Dubai campus is not just an academic expansion—it’s a symbol of deepening bilateral collaboration.” Badri added, “Dubai’s innovation ecosystem will thrive from such partnerships, aligning with our D33 Economic Agenda.”
Three engaging panels explored the intersection of digital transformation and workforce strategy. The “Future of Work” panel highlighted how AI is reshaping business models and urged upskilling and lifelong learning to maintain global competitiveness. Leaders stressed the urgency of aligning talent with technological evolution.
A standout moment came from celebrated cricket commentator and IIM Ahmedabad alumnus Harsha Bhogle, who closed the forum with reflections on his journey from business school to the broadcast booth. He drew rich parallels between sports and business, inspiring attendees to embrace resilience and support their alma maters.
Organised with support from Emirates NBD and the IIMA Endowment Fund, the forum reaffirmed the Pan IIM Alumni Network’s commitment to thought leadership and regional impact.
As IIM Ahmedabad prepares to launch its Dubai campus, it reinforces India’s National Education Policy 2020 and aligns with the UAE’s goals of becoming a global talent hub—further cementing the India-UAE partnership.
