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? 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 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? Travel to the UAE will take place October 14-21, 2023. 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. Global Immersion Program classes bridge classroom lessons and business practices in another country. These three credit classes meet for half a term in New York prior to a one week visit to the country of focus where students will meet with business executives and government officials while working on team projects. Upon return from the travel portion of the class, students may have one wrap up meeting at Columbia Business School. The 2023-2024 Global Immersion Program fee for all classes is $1950 and provides students with double occupancy lodging, ground transportation and some meals; unless an increased fee is otherwise specified in the course description. 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. Exams scheduled during this week may be rescheduled in collaboration with OSA but papers or projects must be turned in by their due dates.