Management Without Borders

Today, the United Arab Emirates serves as a global laboratory for management. Last autumn, prior to the outbreak of the current conflict in the region, our lecturer Emil Velinov visited Horizon University College in the UAE. His mission? To share know-how and draw inspiration from a region where innovation knows no bureaucratic bounds. "Education is at its most vibrant where multiple cultures collide," he shares in our interview.

Escaping Routine for the Heart of Innovation

Emil, what did this mission to the UAE mean to you personally? 

It was a chance to step out of the academic routine and see teaching through the lens of a completely different culture. It confirmed that the topics I teach hold universal value, even in such a rapidly evolving region. The UAE is a laboratory for modern management, with the entire nation laser-focused on innovation—an incredible opportunity for any academic.

What surprised you the most on-site? 

Without a doubt, the multiculturalism. It’s common to have students from ten different nationalities in a single classroom. This creates a learning dynamic quite different from what we are used to. I was also impressed by Horizon University College’s community feel and personalized approach, which seamlessly blends theory with practical skills.

Inspiring Speed

What is the biggest difference between teaching in the Emirates versus the Czech Republic? 

In the UAE, there is a massive emphasis on professional presentation and intercultural communication. Students demand immediate practical application. However, what we should learn from them is the speed of implementation. Things happen there instantly, without bureaucratic delays. Conversely, our strength in Czechia remains in analytical depth and critical reasoning.

Your workshop focused on International Management in Times of Change. How did they respond to your style? 

They were used to traditional frontal lectures, so my interactive style and roundtable discussions quickly engaged them. A student from Lebanon asked how a small startup can apply adaptive management with limited resources. That hit the nail on the head—today, the ability to learn and pivot is more vital than the size of the team.

The Future of the NEWTON Partnership

Are there specific agreements forming between NEWTON and Horizon? 

Yes, we shared the strengths of both institutions very openly. We discussed joint research in intercultural management and leadership. For our students, this opens doors to intensive programs in the epicenter of global business.

If you had to summarize the trip in one sentence, what would it be? 

'The mission to the UAE reminded me that education is most alive where multiple cultures, entrepreneurial spirits, and management approaches collide—and that is exactly the environment I want to continue fostering at NEWTON.'

Experiences like these are no exception at NEWTON. You can also read about the experience of Academic Director Ludmila Hruban. We actively support mobilities for our colleagues, students, and the entire NEWTON Family. We want our community to grow alongside global trends.

• Dreaming of a prestigious address? You can join us for a summer school in Oxford.
• Curious about other destinations? Visit our mobility page and discover the current opportunities where your studies or career at NEWTON can take you.