Zaheer Hayat
Executive MBA, 2009

I started the Executive MBA course at NUBS in 2003, a few months before I came out to the UAE to work for the Abu Dhabi Government. Up to that point, I had worked as a consultant and this was my opportunity to experience working life as a client. Although the timing was not perfect, since the change of environment and culture took some getting used to, I persevered and made time to fly back to attend classes. There were times when I felt I would not be able to balance the demands of the course that can be heavy at times with my work commitments, which were ever-growing. I think it was a combination of the on-going encouragement, care and support from the Executive MBA Programme Administration team on one side and my family on the other, plus the fact that I appreciated the whole learning experience and enjoyed coming to Jubilee Campus that kept me returning each year.

The learning throughout has been exceptional, from the overall quality of teaching delivered, the group work dynamics and interactions during class. The social aspects at NUBS are good also and the culture does not oblige one to always participate if they do not feel up to it. Although NUBS does not yet sit with the highest ranking MBAs, it was for me the best choice and stands high in my post-evaluation criterion, which is based on: flexibility and variety of programme choice; standard of teaching and support facilities; people, culture and environment at NUBS; and cost (including; fees, flights, hotel, car hire, annual leave etc.). I have self-funded the degree and feel it has been worth every penny, mainly because I have gained real value from the course. The whole experience has added value to my work here in Abu Dhabi, which includes a lot of interaction with other government departments, consultants and other key stakeholders. The course has also positively contributed to my personal development, a fact that has been recognised by my employer time and again.

I am currently a member of the executive management team and hold the post of Head of Strategy & Business Planning within a semi-Government Department in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, UAE.