International Programs

Adjacent to Dubai, Sharjah is the third largest of the seven Emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Formed in 1971, the federation comprises the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Ajman and Umm Al Quwain. The UAE is located on the eastern side of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered to the south and west by Saudi Arabia and to the east by the Sultanate of Oman. Like its neighbor Qatar, the UAE has one of the strongest economies in the region and the world. The Emirates of the UAE have made great strides in reinvesting their wealth with an eye toward economic and environmental sustainability.

Sharjah is known as the “Cultural Capital of the UAE,” and has quite a lively history itself. Uniquely located on world trade routes and the only Emirate with direct access to both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, Sharjah has developed from a small trading town, relying on fishing and pearl diving, to one of the most modern, dynamic commercial and trade centers in the region.

Doha is the capital of Qatar, a small peninsular nation about the size of Connecticut, located approximately halfway up the coast on the Arabian (Persian) Gulf. Over 3/4 of Qatar’s population live in Doha or the surrounding communities. The official language of the country is Arabic, though one will find it quite easy to communicate in English as well.

Doha is an increasingly modern and cosmopolitan city, offering excellent entertainment, cultural, and sporting events (it was recently awarded the 2022 World Cup), as well as other exciting activities. Local amenities include a gorgeous waterfront promenade called the Corniche, the Museum of Islamic Art designed by I.M. Pei, the architect who built the Louvre Pyramids, and the Aspire Sports Zone, a multi-use sports facility built for the 2006 Asian Games.

Alexandria is the second largest city and the largest seaport in Egypt. It was the the capital of Egypt and home to ancient Greek, Jewish, and Armenian communities until the Arab conquest. The city is a chic, Mediterranean atmosphere with cafes and stunning seaside views. The corniche, which lines the Mediterranean Sea, is the center of both the Alexandria University campus and the city in general and features numerous beaches and lively entertainment.