Global Business
in the Middle East
with Clarkson & API
Program Details
Program Dates: Jan 10 – Feb 2, 2024
Location: Dubai, UAE
Faculty Lead: Dr. Golshan Madraki
Application Deadline: 10/31/2023
Payment Deadline: 11/18/2023
Program Price: $5000
*Maximum program fee – subject to change depending on enrollment numbers
Program Summary
A business trip to Dubai holds immense value for Clarkson students majoring in business as it provides an unparalleled opportunity to gain firsthand insights into a region that plays a pivotal role in the global economy. This experience will enable students to immerse themselves in the diverse and thriving Middle Eastern marketplace, fostering a deep understanding of the cultural, economic, and technological intricacies unique to this region.
After this journey, our students will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of global business and contribute to the continued success of our institution as globally minded, forward-thinking professionals.
Itinerary Highlights
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Dive into a region that plays a
pivotal role in the global economy with unique experiences which may include:
- Industry and business visits (Dubai Chamber of Comerce, Emirates Airelines, Cisco Systems, and more!)
- Visit to burj Khalifa
- Meet and greet opportunities with industry leaders
- Desert Safari and BBQ
- Day trip to Louvre Abu Dhabi and Grand Mosque
*Final itinerary will be shared with students prior to departure and may be subject to change
Course Details
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Global Business Experience (Univ399)
3 semester credits
Students will examine the current business climate in the UAE. The study plan will include large and small businesses, including global company and local industries. Students will be encouraged to explore topics covering all aspects of business: marketing, information systems, outsourcing, production, etc.
Faculty Information
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Dr. Golshan Madraki
Associate Professor of Business
Dr. Golshan Madraki is currently an Associate Professor of Engineering & Management of Reh School of Business and the Associate Director of the Honors Program at Clarkson University. Dr. Madraki has taught different courses including Project management, System Engineering and management, and Honors
Capstone Courses.
Ignacio L.
This trip has given me the opportunity to slow down, reflect, and do things that I could have never done in the fast-paced life that I was living... If you have the opportunity to see even a little bit more of what is out there, do it! 
Hannah A.
Studying abroad was truly one of the most rewarding experiences of my life...API provided a program rich with opportunities...as well as amazing on-site staff!
Lexi A.
I embraced all the experiences of my study abroad semester differently than had I never been abroad before. When I returned, I knew what to do with those experiences. To this day, I cite my gap year as the most transformational year of my life.
Eden L.
Studying abroad has helped me enjoy the moment of life that I am currently existing in. It gave me a moment in time where I could relax and actually take time to feel alive. Studying abroad has sharpened my street-smart skills, where I am more aware of my surroundings and can figure out ways to not make myself stand out like a tourist.
Nancy S.
[The RDs] were extremely helpful from day one to the very last day of being in the program. You can tell they really care for the students that come into the program & want nothing but the best experience for each one of us. Loved the program!
Isabella H.
I had always wanted to study abroad but the price to study for one summer through my university at home was not realistic for my family to pay. Once we found API and compared the numbers, it was clear that would be the best option. What resulted was six of the best weeks of my life.
Phoebe H.
Through studying abroad I was challenged and awakened to the possibilities of life and what I am truly capable of. I truly believe that studying abroad has deeply altered my sense of self, opening me to the world and what I can accomplish.
What's Included
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API prides itself on including as much as possible in our program fees to make sure that you have an enriching experience abroad.
- Pre-departure advising
- Tuition and transcripts
- Housing
- Excursions/Daytrips
- UAE Airport Pickup/Dropoff
- Medical Insurance
- …and more!
Housing & Meals
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Students will be housed in shared double hotel rooms for program duration: linens and towels, internet access and daily breakfast are included.
Some group meals will be included but any additional meals listed as “not included” in the final itinerary will be the student’s reponsibility.
Health & Safety
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API specializes in minimizing risk through careful pre-departure preparation. Once abroad, experienced on-site Resident Directors are available 24/7, and are extensively trained and ready to enact emergency action plans as necessary. RDs also provide ongoing support to individual students and faculty, and provide valuable local expertise that can facilitate a safe and well-executed program. Comprehensive insurance protection, including emergency evacuation, ensures that additional professional support is also readily available.
NEW - Fare Finder!
In an effort to reduce financial barriers and increase access, we are offering the Fare Finder™ app right inside of APIConnect to provide access to discounted airfare for academic travel. With Fare Finder, we’re making educational travel simpler and more accessible than ever before.
Financial Aid Resources
You might be surprised to hear that you can use financial aid to study abroad! API does accept all forms of financial aid according to approval from your home university or organization.
Passport Resources
Don’t let a missing passport derail your study abroad plans! International travelers are itching to get back out there so processing time for passport applications and renewals has increased. Apply for or renew your passport as soon as possible to ensure your study abroad plans stay on track!
Let's Get You Abroad!
Complete the form to get in touch, and we'll follow up to answer any questions you may have!
Apply Today!
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Connect with Your School
For more information on this program, or how to get the process started at your school, reach out to the staff leader:
Why API
API offers best-in-class programming, with student well-being a high priority.
Our mission is to create better global citizens through international experiential learning. API programs are developed to be transformative, career-boosting experiences that include:
- Community involvement through optional volunteer programs with API Gives Back
- Cultural awareness through relevant coursework and time spent in multicultural student groups
- High-touch student support throughout the program
API Scholarships
Academic Programs International (API) awards millions of dollars in scholarships every year to students just like you! Visit our scholarships page to review our Early Bird Scholarship, our Academic Scholarship, our Opportunity Scholarship and the Financial Aid Boost Scholarship for those who need extra support. API is here for you!
Resource Library
API provides useful information and services in our Resource Library. Visit to review our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), see details about Student Visas, learn more about API Visited and Verified housing, and more!