e-Learning is fast gaining momentum in the Middle East, particularly in the UAE where the total spending on e-Learning is expected to achieve a compounded average growth rate of 26 per cent to reach USD 72.6 million by the end of 2010, according to statistics provided by Madar Research Group and quoted by the Eye of Dubai tourism guidebook.

Eye of Dubai leveraged popularity and reach of its web portal www.eyeofdubai.com to promote the four day ‘e- Learning Excellence in the Middle East 2008’, forum held in Dubai. The forum attempted to bring together leaders and decision-makers to create an action agenda focused on e- Learning quality throughout the region.

Held under the patronage of H.E. Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the forum was organised by the e-TQM College in partnership with Microsoft and Visionaire, and was held at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel in Dubai from January 15 to 18, 2008.

The ‘e-Learning Excellence in the Middle East’ Forum was followed by eight post-forum workshops, offering direct knowledge and skills development in areas related to Instructional Design, Faculty Development, the use of Reusable Learning Objects, e-Portfolio, e-Learning Solutions and Innovations and quality assurance in e- Learning.

The forum was attended by leaders and administrators supporting e-Learning; business enterprises and academics involved in e-Learning research, and educators.

“As media partners of this forum we were keen on ensuring maximum publicity for the event, especially since the pace of growth and adoption of e-Learning in the Middle East is a fair reflection of the overall progress and advancement of the region,” said Abdullah Al Harbi, CEO, Eye of Dubai.

“With the modern-day focus on lifelong learning and the demand for continuous professional development, an increasing number of individuals and corporations across the Middle East are turning towards e-Learning, and the forum served as a perfect platform for participants to stay abreast of latest developments in education and learning delivery.”