IIFT Goes Global: Launches First Overseas Campus in Dubai
India’s premier business school, the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT), is set to make history by launching its first overseas campus in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This move marks a significant leap in the globalisation of Indian higher education and aligns seamlessly with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and its emphasis on internationalisation.
A Landmark Move in Indian Higher Education
Established in 1963, IIFT is known for its academic rigour and specialisation in international business, trade policy, and economics. Until now, it has operated on two campuses—New Delhi and Kolkata. The Dubai campus will be its first international outpost, expanding the institute’s reach to a broader global audience and particularly to the Indian diaspora in the Gulf region.
This initiative follows in the footsteps of other top-tier Indian institutions like IIM Ahmedabad, which have also made international forays. It has received the green light from multiple ministries, including:
- Ministry of Education
- Ministry of External Affairs
- Ministry of Home Affairs
- University Grants Commission (UGC)
Programmes Designed for Global Learners
The new campus is not just a symbolic expansion—it will offer a comprehensive portfolio of full-time and executive programmes. These include:
- MBA in International Business
- MA in Economics (specialisation in Trade and Finance)
- Executive Diploma Programmes for working professionals
- Doctoral Research Opportunities
Admissions to these prestigious programmes will follow the institute’s standard process—competitive entrance exams, group discussions, and personal interviews, ensuring academic integrity and excellence are maintained.
Why Dubai? Strategic and Educational Hub
With its global business environment, diverse population, and strategic location, Dubai presents an ideal setting for IIFT’s first international venture. The new campus will serve as a hub for business education in the Middle East, addressing the needs of both full-time students and mid-career professionals.
The executive education programmes are tailored for industry professionals seeking upskilling opportunities without pausing their careers. Meanwhile, the full-time programmes aim to attract international students and children of the Indian diaspora looking for quality Indian education abroad.
An Institute Rooted in Excellence, Aiming for Global Impact
Professor Rakesh Mohan Joshi, Vice Chancellor of IIFT, expressed great optimism about the international campus.
“The Dubai campus will uphold IIFT’s commitment to academic excellence and research-driven learning. It will serve as a vital centre of excellence in international business education, aligning with India’s broader diplomatic and educational aspirations.”
He also emphasized how the new venture merges education with strategic diplomacy, showcasing India’s soft power on the global stage.
Meeting the NEP 2020 Goals
This overseas campus is a concrete step towards realising NEP 2020’s goal of positioning India as a global education hub. It signifies the country’s efforts to attract global students and promote Indian institutions worldwide.
The Dubai campus is expected to begin operations soon, with updates on course structures, faculty recruitment, and infrastructure development to be shared via the official IIFT website.
Opportunities Ahead
For students and professionals in the UAE, Middle East, Africa, and Europe, IIFT’s Dubai campus offers a unique opportunity to access world-class Indian education closer to home. It also opens the doors for collaborative research, regional business consulting, and impactful alum networks.
With this strategic expansion, IIFT is poised to become a key player not just in Indian business education but also on the global academic stage.
