IIM Ahmedabad Takes the Global Stage: Introducing the Dubai Campus
The Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA), recognised for its excellence as India’s leading business school, is set to expand its global footprint with the launch of its first international campus in Dubai this September. The new campus will offer a one-year MBA program in Dubai for the 2025-26 academic year, designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for effective leadership in an increasingly competitive business landscape.
This initiative reflects IIMA’s commitment to meeting the educational needs of a diverse international student population while providing insights into the curriculum that aligns with current industry demands and trends. Read on for insights into the curriculum and the admission process for the one-year MBA program in Dubai.
Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process for One-Year MBA in Dubai
IIMA’s Dubai Campus seeks ambitious professionals for its one-year MBA 2025 -2026. Applications for the first cohort, beginning in September 2025, are now open. Given IIMA’s legacy and the unique nature of this international MBA, expect a competitive and selective admissions process.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Target Audience | Professionally experienced individuals aiming to advance their leadership skills |
| Educational Qualification | A Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution in any field is required. |
| Professional Experience | Candidates must have at least four years of full-time professional experience as of August 31, 2025, following graduation. |
| Age Requirement | Applicants must be at least 25 years old by August 31, 2025. |
| Standardised Test Score | A valid GMAT or GRE score, obtained within the past five years, is required. |
| Alternative Test Scores (Exceptions) | In exceptional circumstances, scores from the GMAT Focus Edition and GMAT Executive Assessment may be considered. |
IIM Ahmedabad Dubai Campus Admissions Procedure
| Stage | Description | Key Evaluation Criteria |
| Stage 1: Shortlisting | Candidates are shortlisted based on a combination of factors. | GMAT/GRE Scores, Leadership Profile, Overall Application Quality |
| Essay Submission (for Shortlisted Candidates) | Candidates who are shortlisted must provide essays on designated topics within a specified deadline. | The essays will be assessed based on their content to evaluate writing abilities and critical thinking. |
| Stage 2: Personal Interview | Shortlisted candidates will participate in a personal interview with the faculty at IIM Ahmedabad after submitting their essays. | The evaluation will focus on several factors, including professional experience, career advancement, academic preparedness, leadership potential, and overall suitability for the program. |
Programme Curriculum Structure with Elective Options (Terms 4 & 5)
| Term | Focus Area | Description |
| 0 | Induction | Onboarding to the programme, institution, and cohort; curriculum overview and expectations. |
| 1 | Building Blocks | Foundational business principles across core disciplines like economics, statistics, and basic management. |
| 2 | Building Business Acumen | Developing practical understanding of business operations and the interplay of functional areas (Marketing, Finance, HR, etc.). |
| 3 | Building Leadership Skills | Cultivating essential leadership qualities: team management, communication, motivation, and ethical practices. |
| 4 | Preparing for Strategic Decision Making | Learning frameworks and tools for informed strategic choices and analysing business environments.
Electives: Human Resource Management, Organisational Behaviour, Finance & Accounting, Operations and Decision Sciences, Information Systems, Strategy, Marketing. |
| 5 | Preparing for Top Management | Focusing on senior leadership challenges: corporate strategy, governance, and leading complex organisations.
Electives: Operations and Decision Sciences, Finance & Accounting, Organisational Behaviour, Human Resource Management, Information Systems, Strategy, Marketing. |
Bridging Borders Through Education
As the world becomes more connected, IIMA’s presence in Dubai reflects a shift towards education that is both globally adaptable and locally responsive. This approach prepares students for challenges and empowers them to seize opportunities in various business environments.
Applications are currently open for the one-year MBA 2025-26 in Dubai. For additional details, please visit the IIMA Dubai Campus website.