Dubai
Dubai, a city of opportunities, known as the “City of Gold”, is the largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Being an innovative education hub, Dubai offers world-class education and facilities to students worldwide.
Many institutions in Dubai offer excellent education in Science, IT, Engineering and Technology, Architecture, Business and Management, Finance, Economics, etc.
The presence of renowned universities makes studying in Dubai an attractive option for international students.
Apart from this, the country also has many tourists every year and offers its residents modern infrastructure, high quality of life, and tax-free living.
Why study in Dubai?
- Dubai has an affordable higher education system with a wide range of courses and programs. It has many world-class universities renowned for its excellent education, and is an ideal choice for international students as the living costs are relatively affordable than many other countries.
- Dubai's job market offers opportunities in many sectors such as engineering, technology, finance, and more.
- The country provides great healthcare services, a good transport system, safety and political stability, making it one of the most secure countries for international students.
- It has a large expatriate population offering a multicultural society and learning environment for international students. Well-known for offering a student-friendly atmosphere, Dubai welcomes thousands of international students every year.
Top universities in Dubai for international students
| University | QS World University Ranking 2025 |
|---|---|
| University of Birmingham, Dubai | 80 |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | 235 (2024) |
| Canadian University Of Dubai | 523 |
| Zayed University | 621-630 |
| American University in The Emirates (AUE) | 621-630 |
| American University in Dubai (AUD) | 621-630 |
| De Montfort University Dubai | 711-720 |
| Middlesex University Dubai | 721-730 |
| University Of Dubai | 851-900 |
| Manipal University, Dubai | 901-950 |
| Amity University Dubai | 1001-1200 |
Study options
There are three types of university degrees in Dubai - Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees. Refer to the table below to better understand the degree options and durations in Dubai.
| Degrees | Duration |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | 3-4 years |
| Master’s degree | 2 years |
| Doctorates (PhD) | 2-5 years |
Bachelor’s degrees
- BA (Hons) Architecture
- BA (Hons) Interior Design
- BSc (Hons) Computer Science
- BSc (Hons) Data Sciences
- BA (Hons) Communication Design
- BSc (Hons) Cyber Security and Digital Forensics
- BA (Hons) Business Management (Marketing)
Master’s degrees
Intakes in Dubai
There are two main intakes in Dubai: The fall intake and the spring intake.
| Intake | Start from | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Fall intake | September | September to December |
| Spring intake | January | January to May |
Cost of living
Accommodation: One of the major expenses for international students in Dubai is accommodation. Students can opt for university dormitories or private rentals. Depending on the university and room type, on-campus accommodation can range from AED 20,000 to AED 40,000 per year. For private rentals, the costs differ depending on the location, size, and amenities. Off-campus rentals usually range from AED 2000 to AED 7000 per month.
Food and groceries: To save money, many students cook their meals at home and shop for groceries at local markets and supermarkets. On average, students can expect to spend around AED 500 to AED 1000 per month on food and groceries.
Transportation: Dubai's well-developed transportation system makes it easy for students to navigate the city. Students can buy monthly transportation passes at discounted rates, costing around AED 350 to AED 500.
Student life
- Dubai offers diverse places to explore, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Marina, and the Palm Jumeirah.
- The extensive transportation in Dubai, including buses and metro trains allows students to visit adjacent cities.
- Many universities in Dubai also offer extracurricular programs and events. Students can join sports teams, student organisations and cultural clubs.
Studying in Dubai offers a transformative experience of academic excellence and personal growth. With world-class institutions, varied study options, and fun-filled experiences, Dubai remains an ideal choice for international students.
Ready to embark on your journey to study in Dubai?
Contact Edvoy today to explore your options and take the next step towards your academic and personal growth. Our team of expert advisors will guide you through the process and help you make the most of your educational experience in Dubai. For queries, book a free video counselling session now.
FAQs
1. Is Dubai a safe place for international students?
Yes, Dubai is considered one of the safest cities to live in. With a very low crime rate, the city ensures safety and peace of mind.
2. Is Dubai a good place to pursue higher education?
Yes, Dubai is an excellent destination for studying abroad. It offers world-class education with diverse study options, making it an ideal choice for international students.
3. Can Indians study in Dubai?
Yes, Indian students can study in Dubai. Many universities and educational institutions in Dubai welcome international students from diverse backgrounds, including India. Moreover, Dubai has a large expatriate population from India.
4. Is Dubai cheap to study for international students?
Dubai offers affordable study options for international students compared to many other Western countries. Dubai provides excellent value for money in terms of education and living expenses for international students.
5. Do I need to learn Arabic to study in Dubai?
While many programs in Dubai are offered in English, having some knowledge of Arabic can be beneficial for daily life and cultural integration.
