The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates on the eastern side of the Arabian peninsula, at the entrance to the Persian Gulf. Much of the work force in the UAE are foreign expatriates - hence the country's population makeup being so diverse, with Emirati citizens being a minority in their own country.

Students can select individual courses in accordance with their interests. Students may also structure a series of classes in a way that might achieve specific objectives such as improving job skills, pursuing new careers, or obtaining certificates or degrees.