Heriot-Watt University was the pioneering British institution to open a Dubai campus in 2005. Over the past 20 years, it has become a top-ranked university, providing a broad spectrum of foundation, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs.
John R. Woodward, Head of the School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences (MACS) at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, stated: “We are proud of our research-driven programs, taught by seasoned academics. Celebrating two decades in the region, we stay dedicated to offering globally acclaimed and industry-relevant education, equipping graduates with essential skills for the fast-evolving local job market.”

John R. Woodward, Head of School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences (MACS) at Heriot-Watt University Dubai.
“Our undergraduate and postgraduate programs, along with our expanding research initiatives, are accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and assured by the UK’s Quality Assurance Agency (QAA).
We are committed to delivering world-class, forward-thinking education that is locally pertinent and globally acknowledged, with students engaging in the same curriculum and assessments as their Edinburgh counterparts,” he emphasized.
Dubai’s job market is rapidly adapting to meet its ambitions of becoming a pioneer in various tech sectors. The School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences at Heriot-Watt University Dubai is eager to contribute to this evolution.
Woodward noted: “Our undergraduate offerings include traditional computer science and specialized programs in AI, data science, cybersecurity, software engineering, and games programming. These courses incorporate robust technical content, including programming languages, algorithms, computer architectures, and web technologies. We also provide programs that focus on emerging areas like AI and data science.”
“We accommodate working professionals by scheduling evening and weekend classes, enabling them to advance their education without pausing their careers. Our programs equip professionals with master’s-level expertise to progress in their fields. Moreover, we are enhancing research activities at our Dubai campus, with a growing number of PhD students joining our research community,” he added.
Our 2025 program offerings include
1. MSc Artificial Intelligence
2. MSc Data Science
3. MSc Applied Cybersecurity
4. MSc Information Technology (Business)
5. MSc Software Engineering
6. BSc (Honours) Computer Science
7. BSc (Honours) Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence)
8. BSc (Honours) Computer Science (Data Science)
9. BSc (Honours) Computer Science (Cyber Security)
10. BSc (Honours) Computer Systems
11. BSc Actuarial Data Science
12. BSc Data Sciences
Each program is meticulously crafted to endow students with solid theoretical foundations, practical skills, and soft skills, essential for thriving in the competitive global job landscape. Our graduates are confident and well-equipped for diverse career opportunities.
“Our facilities are among the best I’ve experienced, in an outstanding location. Our programs are unique yet mirror those in the UK, being research-led, high-quality, and internationally recognized by professional bodies and local accrediting agencies. The curricula balance strong theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring students are job-ready across sectors,” said John R. Woodward, Head of School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences at Heriot-Watt University Dubai.

Professor Hind Zantout, Deputy Head of School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences (MACS) at Heriot-Watt University Dubai.
“In today’s tech-driven world, data is reshaping industries, influencing employment dynamics. MACS offers technical degree programs that arm graduates with cutting-edge skills for engaging roles, from developing innovative applications to addressing cybersecurity issues and utilizing valuable data,” stated Professor Hind Zantout, Deputy Head of School of Mathematical and Computer Sciences (MACS) at Heriot-Watt University Dubai.
To mark its 20th anniversary in Dubai, Heriot-Watt University is granting a Dh20,000 discount to students applying for selected programs in the September 2025 intake. This incentive is for undergraduate MACS students who apply and pay the tuition deposit for September enrollment.
Guided tours of the 218,000 sqft state-of-the-art campus in Dubai Knowledge Park are available Monday to Friday, 9 am – 4 pm.
For inquiries, contact the Admissions Office at +971 (0) 48 727 000 or visit www.hw.ac.uk/dubai.





