CANDI students explore business and culture during a memorable trip to Dubai

CANDI Level 3 Business students take part in an unforgettable educational visit to Dubai, taking in elements of the city’s educational, cultural and business landscape.

On 2 June, a group of 20 enthusiastic Business students from City and Islington College’s (CANDI) Centre for Business, Arts and Technology (CBAT) embarked upon an exciting trip to Dubai.

During the 6-day visit, the Business Level 3 Extended Diploma students immersed themselves in the vibrant culture and dynamic business landscape of one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. 

The trip, which was intricately linked to the International Business element of the Business Level 3 Extended Diploma course, was organised by Kassim Jabar, Curriculum Manager for Business, and Hamza Hussain, Business Lecturer at CANDI. It was designed to provide opportunities for students to expand their horizons and gain firsthand insights into global business practices.

The adventure began with a visit to the Canadian University Dubai, where students received a warm welcome and an in-depth campus tour. They engaged in interactive sessions with faculty members and students, discussing topics ranging from international trade to entrepreneurship. This visit highlighted the differences and similarities between educational systems and emphasised the importance of a global perspective in business education.

The following days were filled with exploration of Dubai’s dazzling cityscape. Students completed a comprehensive tour of the city, visiting iconic landmarks such as Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and the historic Al Fahidi District. A major highlight was visiting the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. From the observation deck, students were treated to breathtaking views of the city, reinforcing the awe-inspiring scale of Dubai’s architectural and economic achievements.

The students also had the opportunity to attend an International Business Trade Show where they were able to network with industry leaders, explore innovative products and services, and attend seminars on global market trends. This key experience provided practical insights into the workings of international business and the strategies employed by successful global enterprises.

Finally, the students got a taste of traditional Emirati culture through a desert safari, where they ventured into the Arabian Desert and experienced the thrill of dune bashing and camel riding. The desert safari concluded with a sumptuous dinner under the stars which included authentic Middle Eastern cuisine and captivating cultural performances.

Throughout the trip, students were able to relate their experiences to the International Business elements of their course. They observed the practical application of business theories in a real-world setting and gained a nuanced understanding of how cultural contexts influence business practices. The diverse activities offered a holistic view of Dubai’s business environment, from academic insights at the university to the practicalities of trade at the business show.

The trip deeply enriched the student’s academic journey, providing them with a wealth of knowledge and experiences that will benefit their future studies and careers.

Sheulee Firdaus Chowdhury said: “A once-in-a-lifetime experience with college which was enjoyable. Everything was well planned and thought out, and if I could do it again, I would. A trip I will never forget.”

Student Tia Rock said: “This trip was fantastic. We had the opportunity to learn about the rich cultural landscape. It really helped us apply a practical approach to our International Business unit. We not only learned about the culture in the United Arab Emirates but also observed firsthand how international businesses from the USA and other countries established themselves in Dubai. It was a great way to finish up my two-year college experience.” 

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