Abstract

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is undergoing rapid economic transformation driven by technolog- ical innovation and national strategies such as Vision 2031 and UAE Centennial 2071, positioning STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education as critical to building a knowledge-based economy. However, a persistent gap exists between the competencies developed in STEM higher education programs and the skills demanded by emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. While the UAE has introduced pro- gressive education policies and invested in digital infrastructure, most curriculum reforms remain reactive and disconnected from long-term workforce projections. This research applies strategic foresight methodologies to explore how UAE STEM higher education curricula can be proactively reformed to prepare graduates for multiple plausible technological and workforce futures. Guided by a Foresight and Future Planning (FFP) approach, the study integrates two complementary tools: horizon scanning and scenario planning. Horizon scanning, structured through a PEST (Political, Economic, Social, Technological) framework, identifies emerging trends, weak signals, and critical drivers shaping the future of STEM employment and education. Scenario planning synthesizes these inputs to construct four plausible future narratives (2025–2035) based on two critical uncertainties: the level of AI and emerging technology integration into STEM curricula, and the positioning of STEM education within national reform agendas. Drawing on secondary data sources—including UAE national policy documents, labor market reports, academic literature, and international foresight studies—this study develops a strategic framework to guide curriculum reform decisions. The expected outcomes include four distinct future scenarios for UAE STEM higher education, each with tailored strategic responses, early warning signposts, and stakeholder implications. By anticipating change and embracing uncertainty, this research supports institutional readiness and contributes to the UAE’s vision of producing future-ready STEM graduates capable of thriving in dynamic, technology-intensive work environments.

Publication Date

4-2026

Document Type

Thesis

Student Type

Graduate

Degree Name

Professional Studies (MS)

Department, Program, or Center

Graduate Programs & Research

Advisor

Woody Wade

Comments

This thesis has been embargoed. The full-text will be available on or around 5/12/2027.

Campus

RIT Dubai

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