The Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai Psychology department held the tenth conference of Applied Psychological Research and Practice in the Middle East on 27 February 2025. The event, held at the Dubai Knowledge Park, drew more than 160 attendees, including researchers, practitioners, and students from across the UAE. The keynote speech was delivered by Dr Tala Alsoleiman, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Co-Founder of The Adult and Child Therapy Centre in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Her address on “Multidimensional approaches to healing Complex PTSD” highlighted the psychological, neurological, and social factors that influence complex post-traumatic stress.The conference also featured an engaging panel discussion with the theme “Wellbeing research in the UAE” which included Professor Anintha Menon, Head of School of Psychological Services, Curtin University; Prince Kouamelan Kouassi, Chair of the Department of Psychology, AUD; and Rasha Bayoumi, Associate Professor of Psychology, Head of Research, University of Birmingham Dubai. The panel shared their key findings from recent wellbeing research and how it could be translated into policies and practical interventions.This was followed by seven research presentations from academics and practitioners from Murdoch University, Canadian University, Amity University and Camali Clinic. The presentations highlighted a variety of important areas in wellbeing and psychology, including topics such as inclusive education, wellbeing in collectivist cultures, primigravidae and applications of different therapeutic approaches.The conference proceeded into practitioner's sessions, recognising the need for and importance of incorporating insights alongside research, this addition provided a well-rounded perspective, bridging the gap between theory and application. Practitioners representing Sage Clinics, Journey Wellness Centre, Dubai Autism Centre, Human Relations Institute and Clinic, and Meer Psychiatry Clinic provided insights into approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and Brainspotting, which they integrate into their clinical practice. Drawing from their expertise and case studies, they illustrated the effectiveness of these methods and their practical applications.Dr Anita Shrivastava Kashi, Head of Psychology at MDX Dubai, said: “The event allowed our attendees to exchange knowledge and hear the latest research in the field. “The intersection of practitioners and researchers at this platform to further develop psychology in the wider region was an extraordinary experience and brought originality and tremendous success to our conference.”Applications are open to join MDX Dubai’s Psychology department, apply today and start in September.

Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai students had the unique opportunity to visit Nasdaq Dubai, gaining valuable insights into capital markets, trading dynamics, and investment opportunities.A group of 48 students from both the undergraduate and postgraduate Accounting and Finance department attended the financial exchange organisation on 20 February 2025.They participated in a session led by Zainab Sami Karyani, Senior Executive of Operations, Dubai Financial Market, which gave a comprehensive understanding of the exchange’s operations, listed products, and market structures. This hands-on experience was an excellent opportunity for students to engage in insightful discussions, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and live operations in the financial world.The excursion provided students with valuable exposure to financial markets, offering insights into trading dynamics, investment strategies, and capital market operations. By visiting and learning from experts in the field, students gained practical knowledge that complements their academic studies. The visit highlighted the significance of industry-academic collaborations in equipping students for successful careers in the finance sector.With hands-on learning experiences, industry partnerships, and exposure to organistaions like Nasdaq Dubai, our Accounting and Finance programmes provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for a successful career. Apply today to start your journey towards becoming a finance professional.

Accounting and Finance students from Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai secured a top two spot in the annual Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Research Challenge.The Emirates 2025 challenge final took place on 23 February and tasked university students from across the UAE with analysing a publicly traded company, creating a detailed equity research report, and presenting their findings to a panel of industry experts. The MDX Dubai team, consisting of Ashber Bastian, Amritaa Selvaraj, Chanchal Nathani, Himanshu Kimtani, and Chirag Prakash Kherajani, demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the competition. Over the last five months, the team dedicated themselves to creating a comprehensive 10-page equity report, delivering a 10-minute presentation, and navigating a rigorous Q&A session. Their hard work and commitment earned high praise from industry judges and the CFA leadership team.The challenge offered students a unique opportunity to develop critical financial analysis, research, and presentation skills, while also fostering collaboration between academic institutions and the finance industry. MDX Dubai continues to set a high standard for excellence in Accounting and Finance education, you can join on one of our programmes this year – apply today.

Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai hosted ‘For the Love of the Planet’ (FTLOTP) day on 20 February 2025, an annual event dedicated to sustainability. The event, organised by the Institute for Sustainable Development (ISD), led by Andrew Mackenzie, Senior Lecturer and Head of ISD, began with an opening address from Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Middlesex University and Director, Middlesex University Dubai.Rana Hajirasouli, MDX Dubai alumni and Founder and CEO of The Surpluss, delivered the keynote speech. Rana, a renowned climate-tech innovator and keynote speaker in the GCC, delivered an engaging talk on the importance of rethinking supply chains, how we manage resources and reducing waste in our industries.She spoke about the life cycle of products, including how mobile phones will go through, on average, 600 people from conception to consumer. She spoke of her aims to change business psychology, so sustainability is not a one-off project but a circular and deeply embedded business process that is easy to use and even financially rewarding. The Surpluss is designed to change how businesses see and use waste through innovative climate technology and ‘Industrial Symbiosis’. At the end of the session Rana gave attendees the opportunity to play her symbiosis game, which involved participants in groups assuming an industry and then sharing or trading resources and waste for mutual benefits. This practical element gave participants a visual representation of the theories, embedding the learning.Dr Rita Wolff, marine biologist and conservation expert, delivered a talk exploring real-world efforts to protect the Hawksbill and Green Turtles found in the UAE. Dr Rita spoke about threats like habitat loss and pollution, using monitoring techniques such as nest relocation and data collection. The day also marked the official launch of the Green Wave Society, a student run platform dedicated to fostering a community of sustainability advocates at MDX Dubai. Set up under the ISD, Green Wave aims to advance the university’s sustainability agenda, fostering leadership and organisational skills among students while they support ISD’s events and initiatives. Members will be involved with collaborative research with businesses, government and UN agencies, industry round tables and best practice consulting and corporate training workshops.Throughout the day workshops were ongoing with students repurposing clothing to create unique, stylish looks on mannequins. Followed by a fashion show featuring upcycled and biodegradable materials.MDX Dubai’s Icon Studio reinforce sustainable practices all year round in the BA Honours Fashion programme with teaching embedded into the curriculum about being responsive to the evolving needs of the fashion industry, aligning efforts with UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 to reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse. In addition, a cap personalisation workshop encouraged students’ creativity while promoting the idea of repurposing and upcycling clothes. A clothing and book drop off also took place in the week leading up to the day, further promoting sustainable practices in the community.Andrew Mackenzie said: "For the Love of the Planet has been a reminder of the power of collaboration and innovation in creating a more sustainable future. “I would like to extend my thanks to our speakers, Rana and Dr Rita Wolff, for sharing their valuable insights, and to everyone who participated in making this day a success. “These activities align with MDX Dubai’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” The SDGs are a set of 17 global objectives established by the United Nations in 2015, aiming to address pressing challenges and promote a sustainable future for all by 2030. These goals encompass a broad spectrum of issues, including poverty eradication, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, economic growth, and climate action. MDX Dubai have the responsibility to advocate the importance of SDGs and are proud to play their part in ful¬filling them, by providing research knowledge, innovations and solutions, external leadership in raising awareness about the SDGs, and shaping the next generation of environmental minded leaders in the community. To learn more about MDX Dubai’s sustainability initiatives, visit the ISD page.

Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai have announced the appointment of Dr Pallavi Kishore as the new Head of Souq Economics. Dr Pallavi,  Head of Accounting and Finance at MDX Dubai, has taken over the role from Emeritus Professor Ajit Karnik, the founder and former head of Souq Economics, who will now contribute to the programme as a member of the Souq Economics Advisory Board.Souq Economics was created to unite researchers, policymakers, and students from across the globe to collaborate, exchange ideas, and drive meaningful change. It aims to do this by fostering evidence-based research and interdisciplinary dialogue, bridging the gap between academia and policymaking, ensuring that economic research has a tangible impact on the world.In addition to Dr Pallavi’s appointment, several new members have joined the Souq Economics team, including Rashita Puthiya, Senior Lecturer Accounting and Finance, MDX Dubai; Dr Athanasia Kalaitzi, Senior Lecturer Quantitative Finance and Economics, MDX Dubai; and Faisal Nazir Zargar, Senior Lecturer Accounting and Finance, MDX Dubai. Alongside this leadership transition comes a new initiative - Souq Scholars. Designed to cultivate a strong research culture, Souq Scholars will provide a platform for students to engage with impactful research in economics. This initiative will facilitate collaborations between faculty and students, offer research internship opportunities throughout the year, and encourage aspiring economists to develop the research skills needed to address real-world economic issues.Through various competitions, collaborative projects, and mentorship opportunities, Souq Scholars will allow students to gain hands-on experience while deepening their understanding of economic inquiry. Dr Pallavi said: “We want students to see economics not just as a subject, but as a way to understand and shape the world around them.”Read more about Souq Economics and the Souq Scholars initiative.

The Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai Psychology department held the tenth conference of Applied Psychological Research and Practice in the Middle East on 27 February 2025. The event, held at the Dubai Knowledge Park, drew more than 160 attendees, including researchers, practitioners, and students from across the UAE. The keynote speech was delivered by Dr Tala Alsoleiman, Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Co-Founder of The Adult and Child Therapy Centre in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Her address on “Multidimensional approaches to healing Complex PTSD” highlighted the psychological, neurological, and social factors that influence complex post-traumatic stress.The conference also featured an engaging panel discussion with the theme “Wellbeing research in the UAE” which included Professor Anintha Menon, Head of School of Psychological Services, Curtin University; Prince Kouamelan Kouassi, Chair of the Department of Psychology, AUD; and Rasha Bayoumi, Associate Professor of Psychology, Head of Research, University of Birmingham Dubai. The panel shared their key findings from recent wellbeing research and how it could be translated into policies and practical interventions.This was followed by seven research presentations from academics and practitioners from Murdoch University, Canadian University, Amity University and Camali Clinic. The presentations highlighted a variety of important areas in wellbeing and psychology, including topics such as inclusive education, wellbeing in collectivist cultures, primigravidae and applications of different therapeutic approaches.The conference proceeded into practitioner's sessions, recognising the need for and importance of incorporating insights alongside research, this addition provided a well-rounded perspective, bridging the gap between theory and application. Practitioners representing Sage Clinics, Journey Wellness Centre, Dubai Autism Centre, Human Relations Institute and Clinic, and Meer Psychiatry Clinic provided insights into approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, and Brainspotting, which they integrate into their clinical practice. Drawing from their expertise and case studies, they illustrated the effectiveness of these methods and their practical applications.Dr Anita Shrivastava Kashi, Head of Psychology at MDX Dubai, said: “The event allowed our attendees to exchange knowledge and hear the latest research in the field. “The intersection of practitioners and researchers at this platform to further develop psychology in the wider region was an extraordinary experience and brought originality and tremendous success to our conference.”Applications are open to join MDX Dubai’s Psychology department, apply today and start in September.

Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai students had the unique opportunity to visit Nasdaq Dubai, gaining valuable insights into capital markets, trading dynamics, and investment opportunities.A group of 48 students from both the undergraduate and postgraduate Accounting and Finance department attended the financial exchange organisation on 20 February 2025.They participated in a session led by Zainab Sami Karyani, Senior Executive of Operations, Dubai Financial Market, which gave a comprehensive understanding of the exchange’s operations, listed products, and market structures. This hands-on experience was an excellent opportunity for students to engage in insightful discussions, bridging the gap between academic knowledge and live operations in the financial world.The excursion provided students with valuable exposure to financial markets, offering insights into trading dynamics, investment strategies, and capital market operations. By visiting and learning from experts in the field, students gained practical knowledge that complements their academic studies. The visit highlighted the significance of industry-academic collaborations in equipping students for successful careers in the finance sector.With hands-on learning experiences, industry partnerships, and exposure to organistaions like Nasdaq Dubai, our Accounting and Finance programmes provide a comprehensive education that prepares students for a successful career. Apply today to start your journey towards becoming a finance professional.

Accounting and Finance students from Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai secured a top two spot in the annual Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Research Challenge.The Emirates 2025 challenge final took place on 23 February and tasked university students from across the UAE with analysing a publicly traded company, creating a detailed equity research report, and presenting their findings to a panel of industry experts. The MDX Dubai team, consisting of Ashber Bastian, Amritaa Selvaraj, Chanchal Nathani, Himanshu Kimtani, and Chirag Prakash Kherajani, demonstrated exceptional skill and determination throughout the competition. Over the last five months, the team dedicated themselves to creating a comprehensive 10-page equity report, delivering a 10-minute presentation, and navigating a rigorous Q&A session. Their hard work and commitment earned high praise from industry judges and the CFA leadership team.The challenge offered students a unique opportunity to develop critical financial analysis, research, and presentation skills, while also fostering collaboration between academic institutions and the finance industry. MDX Dubai continues to set a high standard for excellence in Accounting and Finance education, you can join on one of our programmes this year – apply today.

Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai hosted ‘For the Love of the Planet’ (FTLOTP) day on 20 February 2025, an annual event dedicated to sustainability. The event, organised by the Institute for Sustainable Development (ISD), led by Andrew Mackenzie, Senior Lecturer and Head of ISD, began with an opening address from Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Middlesex University and Director, Middlesex University Dubai.Rana Hajirasouli, MDX Dubai alumni and Founder and CEO of The Surpluss, delivered the keynote speech. Rana, a renowned climate-tech innovator and keynote speaker in the GCC, delivered an engaging talk on the importance of rethinking supply chains, how we manage resources and reducing waste in our industries.She spoke about the life cycle of products, including how mobile phones will go through, on average, 600 people from conception to consumer. She spoke of her aims to change business psychology, so sustainability is not a one-off project but a circular and deeply embedded business process that is easy to use and even financially rewarding. The Surpluss is designed to change how businesses see and use waste through innovative climate technology and ‘Industrial Symbiosis’. At the end of the session Rana gave attendees the opportunity to play her symbiosis game, which involved participants in groups assuming an industry and then sharing or trading resources and waste for mutual benefits. This practical element gave participants a visual representation of the theories, embedding the learning.Dr Rita Wolff, marine biologist and conservation expert, delivered a talk exploring real-world efforts to protect the Hawksbill and Green Turtles found in the UAE. Dr Rita spoke about threats like habitat loss and pollution, using monitoring techniques such as nest relocation and data collection. The day also marked the official launch of the Green Wave Society, a student run platform dedicated to fostering a community of sustainability advocates at MDX Dubai. Set up under the ISD, Green Wave aims to advance the university’s sustainability agenda, fostering leadership and organisational skills among students while they support ISD’s events and initiatives. Members will be involved with collaborative research with businesses, government and UN agencies, industry round tables and best practice consulting and corporate training workshops.Throughout the day workshops were ongoing with students repurposing clothing to create unique, stylish looks on mannequins. Followed by a fashion show featuring upcycled and biodegradable materials.MDX Dubai’s Icon Studio reinforce sustainable practices all year round in the BA Honours Fashion programme with teaching embedded into the curriculum about being responsive to the evolving needs of the fashion industry, aligning efforts with UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 12 to reduce waste generation through prevention, reduction, recycling, and reuse. In addition, a cap personalisation workshop encouraged students’ creativity while promoting the idea of repurposing and upcycling clothes. A clothing and book drop off also took place in the week leading up to the day, further promoting sustainable practices in the community.Andrew Mackenzie said: "For the Love of the Planet has been a reminder of the power of collaboration and innovation in creating a more sustainable future. “I would like to extend my thanks to our speakers, Rana and Dr Rita Wolff, for sharing their valuable insights, and to everyone who participated in making this day a success. “These activities align with MDX Dubai’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement, in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” The SDGs are a set of 17 global objectives established by the United Nations in 2015, aiming to address pressing challenges and promote a sustainable future for all by 2030. These goals encompass a broad spectrum of issues, including poverty eradication, quality education, gender equality, clean water and sanitation, affordable and clean energy, economic growth, and climate action. MDX Dubai have the responsibility to advocate the importance of SDGs and are proud to play their part in ful¬filling them, by providing research knowledge, innovations and solutions, external leadership in raising awareness about the SDGs, and shaping the next generation of environmental minded leaders in the community. To learn more about MDX Dubai’s sustainability initiatives, visit the ISD page.

Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai have announced the appointment of Dr Pallavi Kishore as the new Head of Souq Economics. Dr Pallavi,  Head of Accounting and Finance at MDX Dubai, has taken over the role from Emeritus Professor Ajit Karnik, the founder and former head of Souq Economics, who will now contribute to the programme as a member of the Souq Economics Advisory Board.Souq Economics was created to unite researchers, policymakers, and students from across the globe to collaborate, exchange ideas, and drive meaningful change. It aims to do this by fostering evidence-based research and interdisciplinary dialogue, bridging the gap between academia and policymaking, ensuring that economic research has a tangible impact on the world.In addition to Dr Pallavi’s appointment, several new members have joined the Souq Economics team, including Rashita Puthiya, Senior Lecturer Accounting and Finance, MDX Dubai; Dr Athanasia Kalaitzi, Senior Lecturer Quantitative Finance and Economics, MDX Dubai; and Faisal Nazir Zargar, Senior Lecturer Accounting and Finance, MDX Dubai. Alongside this leadership transition comes a new initiative - Souq Scholars. Designed to cultivate a strong research culture, Souq Scholars will provide a platform for students to engage with impactful research in economics. This initiative will facilitate collaborations between faculty and students, offer research internship opportunities throughout the year, and encourage aspiring economists to develop the research skills needed to address real-world economic issues.Through various competitions, collaborative projects, and mentorship opportunities, Souq Scholars will allow students to gain hands-on experience while deepening their understanding of economic inquiry. Dr Pallavi said: “We want students to see economics not just as a subject, but as a way to understand and shape the world around them.”Read more about Souq Economics and the Souq Scholars initiative.