Plekhanov University - Dubai: Two Years of Growth and Achievement

Plekhanov Russian University of Economics boasts a long and lauded history of achievements, awards, and milestones. With a 120-year history, the title of Russia’s very first economics university, and 16 branches globally, this legacy comes as no surprise.

But since its launch in 2024, what has the university’s Dubai branch added to this legacy? As we approach the 2026–2027 academic year —the branch’s third academic year— let’s take a look at how far the Dubai branch has come, and the milestones that have helped shape its journey so far.

Growing an Academic Community

Since opening its doors, the Dubai branch of Plekhanov University has steadily grown its student community while expanding the academic opportunities available to students and professionals.

• Significant and steady growth in the student body, building a collaborative, multinational community
• Expanding educational programs to 9 bachelor’s and master’s programs
• Expanding to 18 short-term professional development programs
• Graduation of the first cohort from two master’s programs

Advancing Research and Innovation

Research has quickly become a central activity of the Dubai branch, with new infrastructure creating opportunities to explore emerging ideas across economics, technology, and human behavior.

• Launch of the AI Research Center
• Launch of the Neuroeconomics Research Center
• Establishment of the Innovation Hub
• Development of 18 research and case studies within the Neuroeconomics Research Center during its first six months
• Faculty participation in 60+ international conferences
• Expansion of the branch’s UNESCO presence

Building Connections and Recognition

With Dubai’s unique international business environment, the branch has also focused on building meaningful connections between academia, industry, government, and the wider community.

• Establishment of 30+ industry and government partnerships
• Development of collaborative events and conferences
• Expansion of industry exposure and internship opportunities for students
• Expansion of the branch’s global network and external collaborations
• Receiving the Education Business Development Excellence Award
• Strengthening of its position as an international hub for education, research, and collaboration

Looking Ahead

As we welcome a new generation of Plekhanovites for 2026–2027, we are thrilled to build on this momentum, create new opportunities, and see what the next generation of students will achieve.