Heriot-Watt University Dubai names Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg as pro-chancellor

Heriot-Watt University Dubai (HWUD) has announced the appointment of Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg, chairperson and MD of the Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group (ESAG), as the pro-chancellor of the University in Dubai.

In this role, she will become the honorary head of the university in Dubai and will represent the university in a ceremonial and ambassadorial capacity, including in the conferment of degrees.

Professor Heather McGregor, provost and vice principal of Heriot-Watt University Dubai said, “We are delighted to be announcing the appointment of Dr Raja Easa Al Gurg and welcome her to the Heriot-Watt University community. Dr Al Gurg is a celebrated international businesswoman and brings with her years of business acumen and local knowledge that will inspire our team in Dubai and set an example for our students.

“As the first British university set up in the UAE, Heriot-Watt has continued to grow and provide world-class education to its students, and we look forward to accomplishing more with Dr Al Gurg’s leadership and support.”

Dr Al Gurg has been the MD of the Dubai-based business conglomerate Easa Saleh Al Gurg Group for over three decades and assumed the position of its chairperson earlier this year. She is also  the founder of the Dubai Business Women Council and; Board member of the Dubai Chamber and Dubai Women’s Association. She is also on the advisory board of Coutts Bank, the wealth division of the Royal Bank of Scotland Group.

Dr Al Gurg’s appointment means that Heriot-Watt University now has an all-female leadership in Dubai, with Professor Heather McGregor, who recently transferred from Edinburgh to Dubai to take up the post of  Provost and Vice-Principal.

Dr Al Gurg said, “I am gratified to accept this position as pro-chancellor and to be associated with a renowned institution that has a rich history of 200 years. As an advocate of women empowerment, I look forward to be part of an all-female leadership team in Dubai. I hope my engagement will further enrich the contribution of Heriot-Watt University within the education sector in the UAE and enhance skill development in various industry avenues. The essence of education to me is challenging and extending oneself into unknown areas and accepting there is always more on the horizon. Regardless of age, experience or status, a lifelong learning attitude is essential to stay relevant in our ever-changing world.”