The first ever PhD thesis on Arabic Language and Literature at the Dubai-based College of Islamic and Arabic Studies was discussed Wednesday under the patronage of Shaikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The PhD thesis is conducted by Fatima Nasser Al Myukhaini under the supervision of Professor Ahmad Hassani, dean of the college. It was discussed in the presence of Juma Al Majid, chairman of the college\'s Board of Trustees, Dr Mohammad Ahmad Abdul Rahman, director of the college, and Dr Mohammad Sa\'adah, assistant to the college dean for higher study affairs, and Dr Salah Rizq, head of the Arabic language section. The college-accredited higher education programme (Master and PhD) mainly aims to improve the academic level of Emirati women and give them a chance to pursue higher education and play an effective role in the development of their country. The PhD programme was introduced by the college in 2007/2008 to address a need for Arabic language and literature. The higher education programme is accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and was approved by a committee of experts in the Arabic language. A total of 125 female students are enrolled in the higher study programme, including 58 students in the PhD and Master programme in Islamic studies, and 67 in the Master and PhD programme in Arabic language and literature.