Class of 2024 Celebrate Their Graduation Weekend at Iconic Atlantis Hotel, The Palm
- Monday, 3 February 2025
Middlesex University (MDX) Dubai continued its 20th anniversary celebrations by marking the graduation of more than 1,500 talented students in the Class of 2024.
Held in four ceremonies at the spectacular Atlantis, The Palm on Saturday February 1 and Sunday February 2, the event honoured the largest graduating class in the University’s proud 20-year history, and welcomed families from across the globe, reflecting MDX Dubai’s commitment to being a global community that thrives on cultural exchange and global perspectives.
MDX Dubai opened its doors in Dubai Knowledge Park in 2004 with just 28 students. Over two decades, it has experienced phenomenal growth into a celebrated research-focused institution with more than 6,300 students representing 120 nationalities.
This weekend’s graduation ceremonies highlighted MDX Dubai’s strengths in advanced technologies, sustainability-focused degrees, and inclusivity in education. The ceremonies were filled with inspiring speeches from Pro-Vice Chancellor of Middlesex University and Director of Middlesex University Dubai Professor Cedwyn Fernandes, and Vice-Chancellor of Middlesex University, Professor Shân Wareing from the flagship campus in London.
The proceedings also celebrated several Class of 2024 graduates who had gone above and beyond throughout their time at MDX Dubai, making significant contributions to their university. Four graduates were awarded the academic title of Valedictorian for exceptional performance, including Fathima Riffai, who achieved a First Class Honours in BSc Information Technology.
Fathima said: “My journey at Middlesex University Dubai has been a transformative blend of academic excellence, leadership, and personal growth.
“Achieving first-class honours in Information Technology was a proud milestone, complemented by my role in co-founding the UAE’s first university chapter of Girl Up, a United Nations initiative, where I served as Vice President and contributed to advancing empowerment and equality. I also served as Director of Emerging Technology for the Google Developer Student Club and Book Club Coordinator while fostering creativity and engagement as an Events Club organiser.
“As a public speaker, I had the privilege of hosting flagship events such as International Day, Week of Welcome, and Youth Fest, which refined my communication skills and ignited my passion for inspiring others.”
Professor Cedwyn Fernandes said: “Over the past few years, every graduate has navigated a path shaped by thousands of choices, challenges, and leaps of faith.
“Each decision, big or small, has played a part in building the person they’ve become. This journey has been about more than academics. It has tested resilience, strengthened character, and turned them into leaders who are ready to create change, inspire others, and leave a meaningful mark on the world.
“Although paths have all been different, they have all led to the same place, united as graduates of Middlesex University Dubai. The scroll they hold serves as a testament to their dedication and determination.”
Applications to study at Middlesex University Dubai in September 2025 are now open, with an additional intake in April for the MBA (Daytime Delivery) programme.
