Edufair Abu Dhabi concluded its fourth edition on October 18, drawing extensive participation from students, educators, and career experts who focused on emerging trends in artificial intelligence (AI) and the skills required for future job markets. The two-day event took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Resort Abu Dhabi Corniche and featured over 20 universities, study-abroad advisors, and career services professionals.
The event was inaugurated by Dr Deepak Mittal, Ambassador of India to the UAE, alongside Dr Eesa Al Bastaki, President of University of Dubai, and Vijay Vaghela, CEO of Gulf News. Dr Mittal highlighted the important role education plays in the UAE–India strategic partnership, noting the presence of prestigious Indian institutions such as IIT Delhi and IIM Ahmedabad in the UAE. He emphasized how these institutions contribute to a diverse educational landscape, allowing residents to benefit from Indian education while engaging with various knowledge systems.
Panel discussions and student engagements underscored the transformative impact of AI on workplace skill requirements. Educators stressed the increasing importance of critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability in preparing students for rapidly evolving careers. Dr Al Bastaki noted the centrality of innovation for the UAE’s economic future, stating that advancing innovation now will reduce dependence on oil within the next 50 years. While recognizing AI’s growing role, he affirmed the continued necessity of human judgment, pointing out that AI operates based on pre-established patterns, whereas humans apply creative thinking.
Vijay Vaghela emphasized the importance of leveraging AI alongside personal development and societal advancement. He described the future as reliant on combining available technological tools to enhance economic growth, education, and child development.
The fair attracted hundreds of students from Abu Dhabi schools exploring options for higher education and career pathways. Programs in technology and engineering, such as cybersecurity, data analytics, and machine learning, garnered particular interest, alongside healthcare, criminology, business, and finance disciplines. Study-abroad opportunities also featured prominently, with many attendees seeking guidance on how recent visa policy changes in popular destinations might affect their plans.
Xavier Augustin, CEO of Y-Axis and a platinum sponsor of the event, advised students considering overseas study to carefully evaluate post-study work rights and long-term residency prospects. He noted that the true value of an international degree often depends on the opportunities for work experience and career progression that follow, including potential pathways to settlement in the host country.
University representatives and education advisers provided detailed assistance on admission criteria, tuition fees, scholarship options, internships, and international education choices. These interactions aimed to equip students and their families with practical information for making informed academic and career decisions.