Dubai: Dutch universities will showcase their wide range of programmes for the first time in the UAE during ‘The Dutch University Fair’ on Wednesday at Mövenpick Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel in Dubai.
Besides the one-day fair several ‘Dutch Placement Day’ events will take place at various international schools.
In the Netherlands, a high number of programmes are taught in English: 20 per cent of all bachelor degrees (around 400 programmes) and 70 per cent of all master degrees (540 programmes) are in English.
Several Dutch institutes are Nobel Prize winning universities, and most Dutch universities are among the world’s top ranked institutions, according to rankings like the annual Times overview.
The number of international students enrolled in the Netherlands is currently 122,000, coming from 164 different countries.
Programme diversity
Wednesday’s fair in Dubai aims to showcase the programmes that Dutch universities have on offer. These programmes include studies in the fields of medicine, engineering sciences, arts, business, music and humanities, sports, hospitality and more.
Students visiting the fair will have the opportunity to interact with the universities directly and obtain information related to the programmes of their choice.
Dutch education system
Dutch education and quality assurance are regulated and monitored by the national education system to ensure high quality and maintain international standards.
The Netherlands has two main types of regular tertiary higher education: university education (research universities) and higher professional education (universities of applied sciences).
The universities focus on research-oriented work in either an academic or professional setting, while the universities of applied sciences are more practically oriented, preparing students directly for specific careers.
Studying in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is considered one the safest countries in Europe and the cost of living and the university fees in The Netherlands are modest compared to cities such as New York, London or Paris.
Moreover, 95 per cent of Dutch people speak English, which makes it easy for international students and visitors to communicate with the locals.
Frank J.M. Mollen, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to the UAE, said: “Dutch education is characterised by innovative thinking, with an emphasis on problem-solving and relevant practical experiences, to prepare students for the most demanding levels of both the private and public sectors once they complete their education.”
He added: “Studying in The Netherlands means learning to develop your own opinions and ideas, and involves increasing your international exposure. The Dutch are tolerant, open-minded and direct, making it easy to meet them and exchange ideas.”
