Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The UAE-India Business Council UAE Chapter (UIBC-UC) and SP Jain School of Global Management, Dubai, have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on research initiatives and further strengthen academic ties between India and the UAE.

This agreement seeks to enhance bilateral cooperation by combining the educational expertise of SP Jain with the business and diplomatic networks of UIBC-UC, fostering knowledge exchange and innovation to support sustainable growth in both nations.

The collaboration will focus on joint research initiatives designed to tackle key challenges and unlock new opportunities in areas vital to both nations, such as sustainable business practices, technology-driven innovation, energy solutions, and the evolving role of education in a globalized economy.

By fostering a robust platform for knowledge sharing, the MoU will support the exchange of valuable insights and best practices, ensuring that both parties remain at the forefront of industry trends and innovation.

SP Jain has long been at the forefront of the globalization of Indian education, with over 12,000 alumni across the globe. Recognizing the demand for world-class business education in the UAE, SP Jain opened its Dubai campus, using the region as a launchpad to go global. UAE-based Students now benefit from rotational programs with sister campuses in Singapore, London, and Sydney, gaining a truly global perspective.

“SP Jain is a prime example of how the UAE is enabling Indian universities to take the India story global. The UAE has become a bridge for educational institutions, and SP Jain's success here can serve as a model for India. It shows how the right collaboration and enabling environment can allow Indian institutions to become leaders on the global stage,” said Faizal Kottikollon, Chairman of UIBC-UC and KEF Holdings.

“As part of this collaboration, SP Jain students will gain unique access to the UIBC-UC’s august and extensive network of industry leaders, representing the most prominent companies trading in the UAE-India corridor. “Through the sharing and study of key UIBC-UC case studies, students will have the opportunity to analyse and learn from how leading businesses navigate real-world challenges, making the learning experience more relevant and impactful. This partnership is designed to give them a direct connection to real-time business insights and opportunities for hands-on internships and collaborative projects with UIBC-UC’s member organizations.”

He added that this included SP Jain playing an active role at the UIBC-UC India-UAE Conclave planned for early next year.

“Additionally, we plan to jointly create a commemorative book documenting the success stories of this collaboration, showcasing the tangible impact of the partnership and offering future SP Jain students a valuable resource for their professional journey.”

Mr. Kottikollon also used the opportunity to highlight the powerful synergy between SP Jain’s cutting-edge research and the holistic wellness vision of Tulah, the renowned wellness sanctuary set to open next year under KEF Holdings. He emphasized that Tulah’s mission is not just about blending modern science with ancient wisdom; it’s a bold move towards redefining wellness itself. With a shared vision and a commitment to collaborative knowledge-building, this collaboration can ably assist with setting new standards and shaping the future of holistic health.

He added that SP Jain's patented ELO (Engaged Learning Online) technology, which uses a blend of cutting-edge technologies to bring the dynamism and engagement of an on-campus classroom experience online is another noteworthy initiative that will be explored.  With features such as real-time interaction with world-class faculty, peer collaboration, and team-based assignments, ELO enables students to engage with their studies in a truly immersive way. This marks a significant step forward in educational technology, combining the flexibility of online learning with the interactive and rigorous standards that SP Jain is known for.

About SP Jain School of Global Management

SP Jain School of Global Management is a leading global business school with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and leadership. With campuses in Dubai, Singapore, Sydney, and Mumbai, SP Jain is committed to developing future leaders through cutting-edge research and industry-relevant programs.

About UIBC-UC

The UAE India Business Council UAE Chapter (UIBC-UC) is the Official Joint Chamber, established under the patronage of India’s Ministry of External Affairs and the UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation. UIBC-UC aims to foster innovative economic collaboration between the two nations.

UIBC-UC was inaugurated on February 18, 2023, aligning with the first anniversary of the historic Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The Council, launched by UAE’s Hon. Minister of State for Foreign Trade, H.E. Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, in the presence of Ambassador of India to the UAE, Mr. Sunjay Sudhir, and the Consul General of India in Dubai, seeks to amplify CEPA's influence.

Committed to ushering in a new era of collaboration, UIBC-UC leverages its unparalleled network of 18 Founding Members representing leading Indian and Emirati business organizations. This consortium manages assets exceeding USD 1 trillion, positioning it at the forefront of fostering dynamic partnerships that shape the economic future of both nations.

Building on a rich history of economic ties, UIBC-UC identifies strategic projects that businesses in both countries can undertake. This includes investments in infrastructure, manufacturing, technology, hybrid renewable energy, IT, tourism infrastructure, and shipping, enabling Indian businesses to use the UAE as a base for global expansion.

UIBC-UC has played a pivotal role in significant projects like Emaar's Rs 500 crore FDI project in Srinagar, Bharat Mart, and The India Hospital. The Council also influences policy development between India and the UAE, offering members access to high-level delegations and key figures. Additionally, UIBC-UC facilitates involvement in marquee events, provides platforms for exchanging insights and best practices, fosters business networking, and advocates for policies supporting member interests.

Ultimately, UIBC-UC envisions playing a vital role in assisting both governments to realize CEPA's objectives of elevating bilateral non-oil trade to USD 100 billion and securing USD 75 billion in investments from the UAE to India by 2030.

For more information and to schedule interviews with UIBC-UC please contact:
Nandini Vohra
The Guild