In just its second year of operation, the Abu Dhabi campus of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi has recorded a staggering 400% increase in student enrolments — a clear sign of growing global interest in STEM education.
According to an official statement by IIT Delhi, student intake jumped from 20 in the inaugural batch to 80 in the second academic year, with representation from across the UAE and beyond.
Enrolment Breakdown & Course Offerings
- 13 Emirati students have joined the undergraduate programme
- 17 students have enrolled in postgraduate courses
- The rest comprise international students from various countries
Currently, the campus offers specialised courses in:
- Energy
- Sustainability
- Artificial Intelligence
These programmes are being run in collaboration with Khalifa University and Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Artificial Intelligence, strengthening the academic ecosystem of the region.
Bridging Borders Through Education
More than just an academic milestone, the rise in enrolment also reflects the strengthening ties between India and the UAE. The establishment of IIT Delhi’s Abu Dhabi campus—officially launched in January 2024 with the presence of the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi—is a major step in this direction.
The initiative was born out of a joint Indo-Emirati vision to expand access to world-class technical education for students from both India and the Middle East.
“Through the academic route, IIT Delhi Abu Dhabi is committed to achieving UAE’s strategic goals and national sustainability initiatives,” stated the institute.
Building a Global Education Hub
Beyond enrolment, the campus aims to become a hub for research, innovation, and academic collaboration. Its roadmap includes:
- Joint research programmes
- Faculty and student exchange initiatives
- Cross-border partnerships with premier institutions
As IIT Delhi continues to scale its global footprint, the Abu Dhabi campus stands as a testament to the power of international collaboration in education.
