Global Immersion: The UAE - Economic Growth, Business Dynamism, and Global Relevance

Some of the questions that we examine include: What have been the main sources of growth for the UAE? What are the initiatives the government has taken to diversify the economy away from oil and to promote growth? What drives the dynamism of the UAE’s business environment and where do future opportunities lie? What role does the UAE play in global business, and how is this role evolving? How does the UAE collaborate (and compete) with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and its other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) neighbors? What role might the UAE play in students' post-CBS careers and personal lives? The course will consider the UAE’s business landscape from three lenses: (1) enterprises focused on the UAE, (2) UAE-based enterprises serving the GCC and MENA region, and (3) global investors and businesses based in the UAE. To what extent is business in the UAE unique, and to what extent is it the same as business elsewhere? The group will be based in Dubai with day trips to Abu Dhabi and other emirates. During our week in the UAE, we plan to visit key institutions that help shape the business and financial environment in the country. During our on-campus sessions before we travel, we have guest practitioners share their expert perspectives on the UAE and the broader GCC region. Travel to Dubai and Abu Dhabi will take place October 11-18, 2025. The 2025-2026 Global Immersion Program mandatory fee for all classes is $2100 and provides students with double occupancy lodging, ground transportation and some meals. It does not cover roundtrip international airfare. Attendance both in New York and in-country and regular participation are a crucial part of the learning experience and as such attendance is mandatory. Students who miss the first class meeting may be removed from the course. No program fee refunds will be given after the add/drop period has closed. Please visit the Chazen Institute website to learn more about the Global Immersion Program, and visit the Global Immersion Policies page to review policies affecting these courses. Only second year students may participate in Global Immersion Program fall courses; please note exams scheduled during this week may be rescheduled and papers due during that week are expected to be turned in by their due date. Please note all international travel involves risk. We do not control the cities and companies we visit. We try our best to plan a safe trip with positive experience. However, if your tolerance for risk or uncertainties is low, GIP is not for you.