The IIM Ahmedabad Dubai Executive MBA is a new two-year programme designed for experienced professionals seeking AI-integrated management education, international exposure and leadership development without taking a career break. Applications are now open.
DUBAI: The IIM Ahmedabad Dubai Executive MBA has been launched to prepare senior professionals for leadership roles in the Gulf’s rapidly evolving artificial intelligence-driven economy.
Announced on October 8, 2026, the two-year programme brings the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad’s management education to Dubai, combining academic learning, AI-focused business strategy and international exposure.
The launch comes as the UAE advances its ambition to become a global AI leader by 2031, creating growing demand for executives capable of translating emerging technologies into business growth and organisational transformation.
What makes the new Executive MBA different?
Unlike traditional full-time MBA programmes, the course is designed for working professionals who want to strengthen their leadership capabilities without leaving their existing roles.
Delivered across six terms, it combines in-person weekend classes with a seven-day residency at IIM Ahmedabad’s main campus in India and an international immersion experience.
Participants will also complete a faculty-supervised Executive Capstone Project, applying classroom learning to practical business challenges.
The curriculum integrates artificial intelligence into management education while emphasising strategic thinking, cross-functional decision-making and enterprise-wide leadership.
Why AI leadership matters for Gulf businesses
The IIM Ahmedabad Dubai Executive MBA arrives as organisations across the GCC increase investment in AI-powered operations and digital transformation.
According to World Economic Forum data cited by the institute, 41 per cent of UAE workers’ core skills are expected to change by 2030.
Professor Sunil Sharma, Dean of IIM Ahmedabad Dubai Campus, said the programme addresses an important challenge facing experienced executives: acquiring new capabilities while continuing to manage demanding professional responsibilities.
He explained that the course combines academic rigour, classroom interaction and an AI-integrated curriculum structured around the working lives of senior professionals.
Who can apply for the Executive MBA?
Applicants must have at least six years of professional experience after graduation, including three years in managerial or leadership positions.
Candidates must also submit valid scores from one of the accepted examinations: IIMA Admission Test, GMAT Focus, Executive Assessment or GRE.
Admissions will follow a multi-stage selection process.
Global exposure and alumni networking opportunities
Beyond classroom learning, participants will gain access to IIM Ahmedabad’s international alumni network, including professional communities across the UAE, India and other global markets.
The programme represents the third offering from the institute’s Dubai Campus and is supported by global education company Emeritus for awareness and outreach.
Academic delivery and faculty operations will remain under IIM Ahmedabad Dubai Campus.
Impact to expect
The IIM Ahmedabad Dubai Executive MBA could help strengthen the Gulf’s leadership talent pipeline as companies adopt AI across business functions. By combining management education with emerging technology skills, the programme aims to support executives responsible for navigating organisational change and long-term economic transformation.
Applications are currently open through the institute’s official programme portal.
