UTB launches new master’s programme – Master of Science in Real Estate Management and Investment
The University of Technology Bahrain (UTB) officially launched its new Master of Science in Real Estate Management and Investment (MSRI) programme on 16 July 2026 at its campus, in the presence of H.E. Dr Diana Abdulkarim Aljahrami, Secretary General of the Higher Education Council, alongside prominent industry leaders, representatives from the Kingdom’s real estate and investment sectors, and members of the UTB community and partner organisations.
Academic Excellence Aligned with Market Needs
On this occasion, H.E. Dr Diana Abdulkarim Aljahrami, Secretary General of the Higher Education Council, emphasised the importance of enhancing the readiness of higher education institutions to keep pace with rapid developments in the higher education landscape. She noted that this aligns with priorities aimed at improving educational outcomes and providing diverse and flexible academic options. These efforts help align academic outputs with national priorities while supporting HEC’s vital role in reviewing and licensing high-quality academic programmes that meet labour market needs and prepare qualified national talent capable of competing at the local, regional, and international levels for students studying at higher education institutions in the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Industry-Focused Education for Future Real Estate Leaders
Dr. Hasan Almulla, President of UTB, expressed his sincere appreciation to H.E. Dr. Diana Abdulkarim Aljahrami, Secretary General of the Higher Education Council, for attending the launch and for her ongoing support of the university’s strategic vision. He highlighted that the MSRI programme reflects UTB’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with industry and delivering future-focused education that responds to evolving market needs. He added that the programme will prepare graduates with the specialised expertise required to drive innovation and sustainable growth across the real estate, investment and property valuation sectors in Bahrain, the GCC and beyond.
Growing Opportunities in Real Estate and Investment
Infracorp’s Board Member and CEO, Mr. Majed Al Khan, delivered keynote insights, sharing his extensive expertise and rich experience in infrastructure and investments. His address highlighted the importance of shaping future leaders equipped to drive innovation and sustainable growth within the real estate sector.
Drawing on his extensive industry experience, Mr. Aaref Hejres, Chairman of the Bahrain Property Development Association (BAPDA), highlighted the importance of practical development, stakeholder collaboration, and market-driven projects in achieving sustainable growth. He encouraged future real estate professionals to embrace innovation while learning from Bahrain’s development journey and evolving market landscape.
Industry Experts Discuss Real Estate Trends, Investment Opportunities and Innovation
A panel discussion moderated by architect and urban development specialist Ms. Maryam Al Noaimi brought together leading industry professionals, including Mr. Adnan Hasan Mahmood, Founder of Carlton Real Estate; Dr. Mohammad Alabed, Head of Project Management at Infracorp; Ms. Eman Al Mannai, Head of Sales at Infracorp; Mr. Ahmed Khalifa Khalfan, Chief Executive Officer of Amwaj Beachfront, Mr. Faisal Al Doseri, General Manager – KSA at Esnad Group Holding; and Ms. Noor Al Kooheji, Head of Finance – Development Infrastructure Investments, GFH.
Drawing on their diverse expertise in real estate development, project management, sales, investment and finance, the panellists discussed current market trends, investment opportunities, sustainable development practices and the evolving role of technology in shaping the future of the property sector. They also highlighted the increasing need for skilled professionals in property valuation, asset management, market analysis and strategic planning, underscoring the importance of industry-academia collaboration in developing talent equipped to meet the needs of Bahrain’s expanding real estate market and the wider GCC region.
Industry-Focused MSc Programme Prepares Future Real Estate Leaders
Building on the discussions surrounding the growing demand for specialised expertise in the real estate sector, Dr. Haitham Alqahtani, Vice President for Academic Affairs at UTB, presented an overview of the Master of Science in Real Estate Management and Investment (MSRI) programme. He highlighted its industry-focused curriculum, international benchmarking, and alignment with the evolving needs of Bahrain’s real estate sector and the wider GCC market, underscoring UTB’s commitment to delivering education that is both academically rigorous and professionally relevant.
The programme offers specialised study in real estate valuation, investment and finance analysis, property asset management, sustainable urban development, and real estate law. Designed to prepare graduates for a wide range of professional and leadership roles, the MSRI programme represents the latest addition to UTB’s expanding academic portfolio and reflects the university’s mission to provide industry-focused education within a modern, internationally oriented learning environment.
Scholarships and September 2026 Admissions
To support access to postgraduate education, UTB announced five scholarships covering 50% of tuition fees for qualified applicants, sponsored by GFH Bank. In addition, all students enrolled in the programme’s first intake will receive a 20% scholarship.
Applications are now open for the September 2026 intake. The programme offers bachelor’s degree holders an opportunity to gain market-relevant expertise and advance their careers in one of the region’s fastest-growing sectors.
