In collaboration with Umm Al Moumineen Women’s Association Dubai, May 4, 2015: The Center for Executive Development at University of Dubai (UD) in collaboration with Umm Al Moumineen Women’s Association launched a three-month Professional Diploma program to support development of business projects by women as part of efforts to empower women and enhance their contribution to the community. In a statement on the occasion, Dr. Eesa M. Al Bastaki, President of University of Dubai, said ìThe University is committed to promoting entrepreneurial skills among Emirati women. As a leading institution in higher education, University of Dubai has been joining hands with local organizations such as Umm Al Moumineen Women’s Association to strengthen community participation in the UAE.î He stressed the importance of empowering women, taking into consideration their important role in the society. Dr. Nora Marzouki, Director of the Office of Information at Umm Al Moumineen †discussed the importance of launching the integrated program for Professional Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Business Development for womenís projects, describing the University of Dubai as a strategic partner in the efforts to empower women. The program is being offered for free to the participants under a grant by the Citigroup to raise their business and entrepreneurship skills. It will expand economic productivity in the UAE by strengthening the role of women in development. Participants in the diploma program will have a three month intensive training course† in three stages. The first stage is academic preparation which includes an intensive program of daily lectures for a month, provided by specialists from the University of Dubai. The program will address several topics such as business ideas and competition, marketing and finance. Participants will be also introduced to marketing research, cash flow management, financial planning and ethical and legal business practices. The second stage will include project analysis to evaluate business strengths and weaknesses. The third stage will integrate theory with practical application.