Update from Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adam Tickell

Dear students, 

Our University is proud to be an international one, with staff and students from all over the world and working and studying in many parts of it. The events over the weekend have understandably caused concern for many members of our community.  

Our overwhelming priority is the safety and well-being of our staff and students – in Dubai, elsewhere in the region and everyone in Birmingham with personal, family, or professional ties to the region. In the coming days it is imperative that we act with care and compassion and remember that many people will be fearful, concerned for others, and worried for the future.  

Dubai campus 

Students in Dubai have all been contacted and in line with the UAE Government direction, the Dubai campus is closed to the public and teaching has moved online until at least Wednesday 4 March. Non-UAE nationals have been advised to follow the guidance issued by their Embassy, including instructions to remain in place where advised. 

Support and wellbeing 

If you’re affected by this conflict, you may find you need some extra support; it can be useful to talk to family or friends and there are also a number of support services available to you. 

The University provides student support services you can contact if you have been affected by an incident overseas in any way: 

• Talk to your Wellbeing Officer in your School/College. 
• Access UBHeard, a confidential listening and support service open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. 
• Speak confidentially to someone or find some quiet space to reflect at the Multifaith Chaplaincy. 
• You can contact Guild Advice at the Guild of Students or email guildadvice@guild.bham.ac.uk. 

Travel Advice  

All but essential travel to the region is not advised at the moment. Please check the latest official guidance, including: 

• Students travelling for personal purposes should refer to the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) web pages for information. 
• If you wish to contact your Embassy, see Diplomatic Posts (your embassy) in the UK. 
• British nationals in the region are strongly encouraged to notify the UK Government via the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office registration service.  

My sincere thanks to staff in Dubai and Edgbaston for their swift and thoughtful actions over the weekend in supporting our community. As the situation continues to develop, we will remain vigilant, support one another, and follow the guidance of local authorities. Our thoughts are with all those affected by these events. 

With best wishes, 

Professor Adam Tickell

Vice-Chancellor and Principal