Global Captivation Program for UG Students at Dubai

Global captivation programme of DSBA is designed to explore what lies beyond the familiar, to enhance the classroom curriculum and develop a holistic perspective. It is with this aim that college takes its students on an educational tour every year which offers students and their faculty mentor an intense, first-hand experience of the business culture of their chosen country or region.

DSBA students visited American University Dubai (AUD) from 23rd to 29th September 2016. During the weeklong trips, students get a deep insight into the cultural diversity, business practises, industries, economy and visit a leading institution of higher learning. This enriches their classroom learning of management principles and the experience availed by them is truly unmatched in terms of global exposure. Students also get an opportunity to explore different business environments and to lay the groundwork for future international internships and jobs. 

Our visit to Dubai and in particular to the American University Dubai [AUD] was immensely gratifying and rewarding. AUD welcomed all with their gracious hospitality, guided the guests around the campus and enlightened all about every facet of AUD. The right blend of knowledge and information enhanced learning outcomes. We were fortunate to be addressed by exceptional calibre of speakers who discussed important concepts and key issues that students could take home. The sessions at AUD were as follows:

Dr. Tatiana Zalan-Global mega- trends: implications for business, society and leadership Prof. Raj Kapoor- Business Environment in UAE

Dr. Udo Braendle-Cross-Cultural Communication

Dr. Jatin Malhothra -International Finance

Dr. Angelo Corelli- International Finance

Dr. Hassan Zeineddine - Technology Business / Integration of Technology in Business. 

At the end of the session Dr. Mohammed Abu Ali, Dean AUD School of Business addressed the gathering and presented participation certificates. 

The students and the faculty members were lodged at Comfort Inn, Deira. On Day one, students were taken to Gold Souk, Naseer Square and were driven around the city. In the evening, cruising down Dubai creek was a novel experience. Dinner on Dhow cruise with the fascinating lights of Dubai skyline in the backdrop and witnessing Tanura dance was indeed magical.

On day two, students were shown the second Emirates-Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabis gem—the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, home of intricate inlaid marble, massive chandeliers, architectural work of art in one the worlds largest mosques was a treat to the eyes. Then, was a drive through the city with a brief stop at Etihad towers, Kings palace and the final destination-Ferrari world-the only Ferrari branded theme park. The students were captivated with fun rides, thrilling experiences in roller coaster and shopping Ferrari merchandise.

The morning of Day three was spent in AUD and in the evening, students were taken to jumeirah Beach Residence [JBR] and Box Park. The Walk at JBR restaurant and shopping strip, which is adjacent to the beach behind JBR was soulful and so was the walk at Box Park- the uptown shopping area of Dubai. 

The morning of Day four was spent once again at AUD and in the evening, the much awaited, iconic landmark of Dubai –Burj Khalifa was the stopover. Students spent hours in At the Top at Burj Khalifa, totally enchanted by the view of the city from the height of the 124th and the 125th floor. Then one witnessed the captivating water, music and light spectacle in Downtown Dubai and visited the largest mall in the world-The Dubai Mall. The world renowned Aquarium was also seen by all. 

A days visit to a construction site was also planned for the students at Palm Jumeriah on Day five to help students understand the changes seen in Dubai’s landscape, skyline and the sprawling urban development which has happened in a mind boggling short span and besides, to comprehend how theoretical knowledge can be fitted to practise and gain knowledge on building material science. It was truly an unforgettable learning experience and added, yet another feather in the cap in the students Dubai experience.

After the industrial visit, students visited the worlds largest man-made island –the Palm Jumeriah and stopped for a brief period at Atlantis Hotel and walked along the beach-The Atlantis, Palm Jumeriah. In the evening, all were transported to Sharjah; the third Emirate into the deserts by Land Cruisers .The first destination was a toast to every adventurers thirst which alone can quench ones adrenaline rush-Quad Bike Ride. Then the tour departed across the desert with several photo-stops during the exciting dune drive .One also stopped to watch the beautiful sunset before embarking to the final stop-the campsite. One had the opportunity to do a camel ride, try out a henna design on hand or feet and even try to fly a falcon. While enjoying delicious barbecue dinner and shisha, one also watched the belly dance and Tanura Dance performance and witness the fire eater show. 

Day six saw students taking off on their own to do local shopping in areas close to Hotel Comfort Inn in the morning. In the noon, students were taken to Deira Central Mall and later to JBR where the students in the sweltering heat, let their hair down cooling themselves in the icy waters in the beach.

On the seventh day morning, all were packed and ready [in reality, no one was ready to leave the mesmerising and scintillating world in Dubai.

No doubt, the cherished moments, memorabilia brought home and the time well spent will always be seared in the hearts and minds of every individual who made the incredible and stupendous trip to Dubai.