Study in UAE

The UAE, particularly Dubai, offers modern education, a multicultural environment, and strong job prospects, making it ideal for international students. With global universities and affordable living, it provides access to world-class education and an exciting lifestyle, attracting students from all over the world.

Key Highlights 

How does the Education System Work in Dubai

The education system in Dubai is a mix of local and international standards, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. For an Indian student life in Dubai, the academic culture is dynamic, with courses taught in English and flexible learning options. The UAE government does not typically provide free education in Dubai for international students, but various scholarships and financial aid are available. Private universities follow the US and UK systems, with credit-based assessments and opportunities for research and internships.

How does the Credit System Work in Dubai

In usual scenarios, bachelor’s degrees take four years and 132-136 credit hours to complete in Dubai. Credit hours vary across universities, usually representing a measurement unit for academic work, mostly at least one lecture hour each week for a semester. It may also equate to two hours of specific academic work each week or three lab hours per week. 

Some institutions in Dubai also follow the ECTS credit system, i.e. where credit points are awarded for course, module, or seminar completion. The number of credits that students earn in this case can give a glimpse of the academic workload for any specific courses. In this system, a full study year is usually around 60 ECTS credits. 

What is the Application Process to Study in Dubai

To apply for a university in Dubai, students must first choose their desired course and university. The next step is submitting an online application along with the required documents. Each university has its own deadlines, so it's essential to apply early. After submission, universities may conduct interviews or entrance exams before granting admission offers. The application process typically takes a few weeks, depending on the requirements to study in Dubai.

What are the Documents Required to Study in Dubai

When applying to universities, students have to meet several requirements to study in Dubai including providing a set of documents such as academic transcripts, English proficiency test scores (IELTS or TOEFL), passport copies, and a statement of purpose. Other documents required to study in Dubai may include letters of recommendation, financial proof, and a resume for postgraduate applications.

What are the Top Universities to Study in Dubai

Dubai hosts several prestigious universities, including branches of global institutions. Many of the Best Universities in Dubai rank highly in global ranking lists including the QS World University rankings. Here are the top-ranking Universities for Bachelor’s, Universities for MS & Universities for PhD in Dubai.

Also Read: Top Universities in Dubai

What are the Best Courses to Study in Dubai

While the universities in Dubai offer a wide range of courses, some of the best courses to study in Dubai include traditional fields like

• Engineering
• Architecture
• Finance
• Business Administration
• International Relations

Apart from these newer disciplines like computer science and computer engineering are growing to be popular.

What Scholarships are Available in Dubai for Students

Various scholarships in Dubai for Indian students and international students are offered by universities and the government. Some are fully funded, covering tuition fees and living costs. While fully funded scholarships in Dubai for international students are mostly awarded on the basis of financial need or special academic achievement criteria, students are still eligible for many more types of scholarships such as the following.

• Merit-based Scholarships: Awarded to students with outstanding academic performance in their previous studies, covering up to 50% of tuition fees.
• Need-based Scholarships: Available to students demonstrating financial challenges. These can cover 25% to 50% of the total fees.
• Corporate-sponsored Scholarships: Offered in collaboration with industry partners, supporting students pursuing courses in areas like business and technology.
• Alumni Family Scholarship: A discount for students with family members who are university alumni, providing a tuition fee reduction.

What Intakes are Available to Study in Dubai

Most universities in Dubai including the University of Dubai, Canadian University (Dubai), and American University in Dubai have three intakes – Fall, Spring and Summer. Here are the details of the Dubai intakes.

• Fall – Applications for fall intake open in March/April and typically close by July/August.
• Spring – Applications for the spring intake open in October/November and close by December/January
• Summer – Applications for the summer intake usually open in February and close by May

What is the Study Cost in Dubai

The tuition fee in Dubai greatly varies depending on the university and choice of program. For example, the usual range of tuition fees in Canadian University (Dubai) is AED 66,276 to AED 103,719 per year. On the other hand, American University in Dubai tuition fees are higher – AED 50,505 per semester or AED 4,368 per credit.

What are the Living Expenses in Dubai

The cost of living in Dubai is generally more affordable as the various student services like student accommodation, transport, etc are available at discounted rates. Overall in general, the living expenses in Dubai range from AED 3,000 to AED 6,000. Here is a breakdown of the estimated cost of living in Dubai for students.

• Rent: AED 2,000 to AED 10,000 per month
• Food: AED 2,000 to AED 3,000 per month
• Transportation: AED 300 per month
• Sports and Leisure: AED 290 per month

Read More: Cost of Living in UAE

What is the Student Visa Process & Fee for Dubai

The student visa process for Dubai begins once you receive an acceptance letter from a recognized university. To apply, students need to provide documents such as passport copies, proof of financial stability, medical test results, and the university’s acceptance letter. The visa is typically sponsored by the university and is valid for 12 months, requiring annual renewal based on your academic progress. 

The cost of obtaining a student visa varies between AED 2,800 to AED 9,000, including medical insurance and processing fees. Additionally, students must pay an AED 7,000 Cautionary deposit for first-time visa applications. Some universities may assist students in the Dubai student visa process, offering a more streamlined experience.

What is the Post Study Work Visa for Dubai

After completing their studies, international students in Dubai have the opportunity to apply for a post-study work visa, allowing them to remain in the UAE and seek employment. This visa is known as the Work Permit, and it is sponsored by an employer who hires the graduate. The post-study work permit in Dubai visa typically lasts between 2-3 years, depending on the job offer and industry. Graduates can apply for jobs across various sectors such as finance, engineering, hospitality, and technology, which are thriving industries in Dubai.

Additionally, Dubai offers the "Golden Visa" scheme for exceptional students who graduate with honours or have a remarkable academic track record. This long-term residency visa allows graduates to stay for up to 10 years and explore career opportunities without the immediate need for employer sponsorship. To qualify, graduates must meet specific criteria, such as having a degree from a recognized institution and achieving high academic performance. The post-study work visa not only provides time to secure a job but also allows graduates to gain valuable professional experience in the UAE market, making it easier to transition into a long-term career.

Also Read: Dubai Golden Visa

How can you obtain Permanent Residence (PR) for Dubai

While Dubai does not offer direct permanent residence (PR) or citizenship for Indian or other international students, there are pathways to long-term residency in the UAE. The most common option is through employment, where individuals can continue renewing their work visa for as long as they are employed in the country. For highly skilled professionals, investors, or individuals with exceptional talents, Dubai offers a long-term residency option called the "Golden Visa." This visa grants residency for 5 to 10 years and is available to those who meet specific criteria, such as owning a business, investing in real estate, or excelling in specific fields like science, engineering, or the arts.

Investors can also explore residency by purchasing property in Dubai worth a minimum of AED 750,000, which qualifies them for a 2-year renewable residency visa. Business owners who contribute significantly to the UAE economy can also apply for the Golden Visa under the investor category.

What are the Best Cities to Study and Live in Dubai

Dubai is the crown jewel of the UAE and is home to numerous universities, including several institutions from the USA, UK, and other countries. Here are some of the top destinations for students in this futuristic Emirate. 

1. Dubai Academic City- Situated along Al Ain Road, it is one of the world’s biggest free zones, dedicated for institutions and offers affordable accommodation for students too. 
2. Dubai Silicon Oasis- This zone is preferred for its proximity to leading educational institutions and universities in the Academic City. There are plenty of accommodation choices here as well. 
3. International City- Another top choice for students in terms of connectivity to universities and student housing, International City offers comfortable and cosmopolitan lifestyles for residents. 
4. Jumeirah Village Circle- This is situated near Dubai Knowledge Village (home to several institutions) and is one of the top areas for students. 
5. Jumeirah Lake Towers- Another hub for students studying at institutions in the Dubai Knowledge Village, this area offers great amenities and affordable accommodation alike. 

Job Opportunities in Dubai for International Students

International students can work part-time while studying. The jobs in Dubai often include internships in the finance, marketing, and IT sectors. Many students also take up part-time jobs in Dubai in retail, hospitality, or customer service roles to gain work experience. Here are some of the usual part-time jobs in Dubai for students.

• Marketing Intern: AED 4,000
• Pet Sitter: AED 2,500
• Social Media Manager: AED 2,000

Why Choose upGrad Abroad to pursue your education in Dubai

upGrad Abroad offers end-to-end guidance, from university selection to visa processing, ensuring a hassle-free experience. By choosing upGrad Abroad, students get access to expert counseling, admission support, and opportunities to connect with alumni networks for seamless entry into international education pathways in Dubai.