Plekhanov University in Dubai hosted Expert-Led Conference Six Sigma

Plekhanov University in Dubai, in partnership with the Six Sigma Institute, hosted a high-level Six Sigma Conference bringing together industry leaders, public sector representatives, academics, and students. Speakers from different industries discussed real-world applications of Six Sigma and data-driven decision-making. During the event, the university announced the establishment of the UAE Six Sigma Council, reinforcing its role as a bridge between academia, business, and best international practices.

Opening the conference, Dr. Svetlana Malkarova, Director of Plekhanov University in Dubai, stated:

“Here in Dubai, we prepare graduates who think strategically, act responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to organizations and society. Six Sigma is a methodology built on continuous improvement and evidence-based decision-making, and these principles closely align with the way we design our academic programs. This conference provides an important opportunity to see how these ideas are applied in practice across industries.”

The conference also welcomed His Excellency Maxim Vladimirov, Consul General of the Russian Federation in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and Makar German, Deputy Trade Representative of the Russian Federation in the United Arab Emirates.

The event featured expert presentations and a panel discussion with leading regional voices in Six Sigma, including:

• Dr. Musa Arikat, Business Development Consultant, Dubai Police
• Mr. Musa Faisal, Senior Vice President, Emirates Airline
• Ms. Ayda Sawaf, In-House Consulting Manager, Emirates Airline
• Dr. Mahmoud Awad, Associate Professor, American University of Sharjah
• Dr. Maher Itani, Associate Professor, Ajman University
• Dr. Ali Abou Abbas, Associate Professor, Plekhanov University in Dubai

In his address, H.E. Maxim Vladimirov highlighted the role of educational institutions in strengthening international cooperation:

“In my work, I often see how cooperation between countries is shaped not only through official means, but through business, education, and the sharing of expertise. In this respect, academic institutions play an essential role. They create environments where professionals of different fields can collaborate around shared standards and approaches.”

During the conference, Dr. Svetlana Malkarova announced a landmark initiative:  in collaboration with Dr. Musa Arikat from Dubai Police and conference's esteemed speakers, Plekhanov University in Dubai will establish the UAE Six Sigma Council. Overseen by Dr. Ali Abou Abbas, the Council will serve as a regional reference point for Six Sigma, supporting cross-sector collaboration and advancing the implementation of the methodology across the UAE.

Speakers shared insights from diverse industries, examining how Six Sigma principles are applied in real operational environments to improve efficiency, standardize processes, and support informed decision-making. Discussions focused on practical implementation across sectors such as aviation, public services, and higher education, demonstrating how tools like DMAIC can be adapted to address complex organizational challenges. Within this context, Ayda Sawaf outlined how Six Sigma can be used to optimize customer service processes, reduce manual work, and strengthen governance frameworks:

“I use Six Sigma not just as a methodology, but as a way of thinking. For me, the most critical element is ensuring that improvements are sustained well beyond implementation, so results truly last.”

Commenting on the impact of the conference, Dr. Musa Arikat noted:

“It was a great opportunity for sharing knowledge, exchanging information, and meeting experts from different industries. The announcement of a new council for Six Sigma – the first of its kind in the UAE – was a very strong outcome of this conference.”

Through initiatives such as this conference, Plekhanov University in Dubai continues to highlight the relevance of Six Sigma for the UAE business community. As a university offering specialized training in the methodology, it supports professionals in applying data-driven approaches not only in management roles, but across a wide range of careers where informed decision-making is essential.

Plekhanov Russian University of Economics is one of Russia’s oldest and most respected universities, with a history of almost 119 years. Since its founding, the university has been committed to delivering rigorous education in economics, management, finance, and business, while emphasizing entrepreneurship and a spirit of leadership.