Emirates started its in-house MBA programme provided by the University of Bradford School of Management in October 1999. At the time, the intent was that the programme would help develop technical specialists in preparation for more senior and broader management roles.

The programme continues to be successful and in 2001 it was decided to look for partner organisations interested in this form of development for their management cadres, but on a consortium basis. This was well received and three organisations joined the programme as consortium members. Besides allowing a forum for inter-company knowledge sharing, a significant benefit from a programme of this nature, it also supports the development of United Arab Emirates and Dubai in particular as a centre of learning excellence.