H1B visa fee surge redirects global talent to the UAE – MAHE Dubai’s Lourd Johnson explains what it means for students

A sharp increase in the US H-1B visa sponsorship fee is nudging skilled professionals to consider the Gulf. According to Lourd Johnson Fernando, Deputy Manager - Corporate Alliances at MAHE Dubai, this shift is already translating into stronger interest from global employers building teams in the UAE.
“We are embedding advanced skills like AI, cybersecurity, data analytics, and cross-cultural communication into our career-readiness programs,” said Lourd Johnson. “This ensures MAHE Dubai graduates are industry-ready for multinational firms relocating or expanding in the region.”
How MAHE Dubai is preparing students for the opportunity?
Career-ready curriculum - Modules and micro-credentials in AI, data, cybersecurity, cloud, and product skills integrated into degree pathways.
Industry integration - Live projects, capstones, and internships aligned to employer outcomes like delivery, collaboration, and measurable impact.
Advising and employability - Portfolio reviews, interview labs, and employer-led workshops mapped to target roles across tech, finance, consulting, and analytics.
Regional pathways - Guidance on UAE hiring practices and visa options, plus connections to employers expanding Middle East operations.
“Students want clear routes from classroom to career,” added Johnson. “By aligning our teaching and experiential learning with the skills employers actually hire for, we are helping graduates convert opportunity into outcomes.”
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