UK Higher Education Institutions and their branch campus operations in Dubai: Exploring changes based on experiential knowledge.

Abstract

This research explores the international branch campus (IBC) model in Dubai, United Arab Emirates from the perspective of five United Kingdom (UK) Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). A total of ten interviews were conducted with similar senior level leadership roles at both the UK HEIs and their respective branch campuses. A further interview was conducted with a senior Government of Dubai representative providing context on the higher education system in the host country. Two timeframes were the focus area of the research: the strategic planning phase of the project at the home campus and the subsequent implementation phase at the branch. The business model, Uppsala Internationalisation Model (UIM) for business development is proposed as a practical tool that has the potential to help institutions navigate the challenges of setting up branch campuses in regions where the political, cultural, and economic conditions differ to those at the home country. The findings of this research suggests that experiential learning resulting from operations in Dubai and the establishment of network relationships developed in the host country impact assumptions made during the strategic planning phase. The extend to which HEIs are willing to adapt and modify strategic plans for the IBC, are key to branch campus success and long-term sustainability.

Date of Award	22 May 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Bath
Supervisor	Ian Jamieson (Supervisor) & Juani Swart (Supervisor)