Inaugural UAE Internship Programme to Drive Digital Innovation and Prepare Industry-Ready Talent
Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, has entered into a strategic partnership with the University of Birmingham Dubai through a newly signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The collaboration will see the introduction of an advanced curriculum in cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) for students and educators at the Dubai campus. Alongside this, Alibaba Cloud has launched its first internship programme in the UAE, with the University of Birmingham Dubai becoming the inaugural academic partner.
Through the agreement, students and faculty will gain valuable exposure to cutting-edge cloud and AI technologies. The programme will feature in-depth technology workshops, blended online and offline training, and specialist certification courses delivered by Alibaba Cloud experts.
Central to the initiative is the launch of Alibaba Cloud’s “Future Star” internship programme in the UAE. The scheme offers three- to six-month placements combining professional training, practical experience, and mentorship. Interns will gain insight into a variety of roles at Alibaba Cloud, equipping them with the skills required to succeed in the global cloud computing sector.
“We are thrilled to partner with the University of Birmingham Dubai to nurture the next-generation digital skills in the region. The University of Birmingham Dubai, renowned for its dedication to research and education in technology and digital fields, brings a wealth of expertise and visionary thinking to the collaboration. Through this partnership, we are committed to equipping their students and faculties to acquire crucial digital insights, allowing them to engage more deeply with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies. Together, we are poised to unlock numerous opportunities in our rapidly digitalizing world, ensuring that students, educators, and industry professionals alike can thrive in the evolving digital landscape,” said Eric Wan, General Manager of the Middle East, Turkey and Africa, Alibaba Cloud Intelligence.
Professor Yusra Mouzughi, Provost of the University of Birmingham Dubai, said: “We are proud to partner with Alibaba Cloud to provide our students with direct access to real-world learning experiences and cutting-edge technologies in cloud computing and AI. This collaboration reflects our commitment to equipping future graduates with the digital skills and global industry exposure needed to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world. The internship and academic enrichment opportunities offered through this partnership will play a pivotal role in shaping industry-ready talent from our campus here in Dubai to join leading institutions globally.”
The agreement underlines Alibaba Cloud’s long-term vision of building a strong pipeline of digital talent in the Middle East. Since 2016, the company has supported local enterprises and public institutions in the UAE and across the MEA region, working with partners in banking, finance, insurance, media, and government sectors, and serving clients across multiple industries.
