The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) is set to open its first overseas campus in Dubai, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry announced on Friday. This marks a major step in implementing the internationalisation goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
The Dubai campus has received approvals from key bodies including the Ministry of Education, Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs, and the University Grants Commission (UGC).
The Dubai centre will offer the same academic standards and training as the Indian campuses. It aims to serve international students as well as the Indian community based in the Gulf.
The programmes will focus on international trade, economics, and business policy. According to the ministry, this move will help India strengthen its global academic presence.
Courses offered will include the MBA in International Business, MA in Economics (Trade and Finance), Executive Diplomas for working professionals, and doctoral programmes. Admissions will follow the current process of entrance exams, followed by group discussions and interviews.
CAMPUS AND OTHER DETAILS
Established in 1963, IIFT currently runs its main campuses in Delhi and Kolkata. This will be the first time the institute sets up operations outside India.
IIFT Vice Chancellor Prof Rakesh Mohan Joshi said the Dubai campus will reflect the institute’s academic vision while adapting to the needs of the global market.
He added that the expansion is part of India’s strategy to connect education with diplomatic and trade goals.
The Dubai campus is expected to start functioning soon. It will run both full-time and executive courses designed to meet the region’s industry requirements and business challenges.
The initiative follows similar global moves by other Indian institutions, such as IIM-Ahmedabad, and marks a growing trend in India’s higher education reaching beyond borders.
