It is with great pride and optimism that I welcome you to the 2026–2027 academic year at the Higher Colleges of Technology.

HCT begins this academic year with renewed momentum in its journey to become the leading university of applied sciences. Deeply rooted in the UAE’s national priorities and driven by our ambition to exemplify Emirati excellence to the world, we continue to advance an applied education model that prepares learners to shape the future workforce of a thriving UAE.

Guided by a strategic direction focused on co-creating the future workforce for a thriving UAE, HCT remains committed to developing learners through applied education and research delivered in close collaboration with industry. This strategy is shaped by our community and driven by the belief that education must create real-world value for students, industry, society, and the nation.

At HCT, learning goes beyond the classroom. We are building knowledge-rich, practice-based environments where students develop the competencies, confidence, values, and mindset needed to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Through industry-aligned programs, applied research, entrepreneurship, innovation, and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, we are equipping our graduates to lead with purpose and contribute meaningfully to the UAE’s national priorities.

Our work is guided by three strategic pillars. Through Talent Engine, we uphold educational excellence by strengthening curriculum quality, academic delivery, and competency-based learning. Through Catalyst for Transformation, we enhance graduate employability, industry impact, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Through Thriving Community, we nurture a vibrant, supportive, and values-driven HCT community that fosters pride, belonging, and shared achievement.

These pillars are anchored in our core values of Honour, Courage, and Trust. We uphold integrity and the highest ethical standards, embrace challenges and innovate boldly, and build relationships founded on reliability, transparency, and mutual respect. These values define who we are and guide how we learn, work, and serve.

To our students, I encourage you to make full use of the resources, services, and support systems available throughout your HCT journey. Your Student Handbook, Methaq, Academic Advising resources, student e-Services, and the MyHCT App provide essential guidance on academic policies, professional certifications, student conduct, wellbeing support, and graduation requirements.

Whether you are beginning your studies or preparing for graduation, I urge you to remain engaged, informed, and proactive. Understand your academic pathway, seek advice whenever needed, and take ownership of your learning. These habits will help you make the most of the opportunities available to you and prepare you for success academically, personally, and professionally.

You are supported by a dedicated HCT network that includes academic advisors, faculty, Student Life teams, wellbeing services, professional development services, and your peers. Together, they are here to help you thrive, achieve your goals, and contribute to the HCT community with confidence and purpose.

On behalf of the Higher Colleges of Technology, I wish you a productive, fulfilling, and inspiring academic year. Let us make 2026–2027 a year of excellence, innovation, growth, and meaningful impact for our students, our communities, and the UAE.

Warm regards,

Dr Faisal Alayyan
President & CEO
Higher Colleges of Technology