Summary
- This is a branch campus of India’s Manipal University and a great choice for programs in engineering, IT, media, and business.
- It is a great option for courses in business, media, law, design, and IT.
- It is a branch of India’s Amity University, and offers programs in engineering, business, arts, and applied sciences.
Dubai is emerging as a global higher education hub.
Demand for skilled graduates has been at an all-time high in Dubai, with rapid growth in the construction, artificial intelligence, and tourism sectors.
This is great news for Indian students who want to study abroad in Dubai. The flights take less than four to five hours from major Indian airports. There is a dynamic and multicultural environment, and cutting-edge facilities.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through reasons to choose Dubai, the best universities, and the perfect undergraduate and postgraduate courses for you.
Why choose Dubai for higher education?
- Global Recognition: Many of Dubai’s universities are certified as the best in the world and ranked among the top 500 in QS World University Rankings 2025.
- Multicultural Campus Life: The campuses have amenities to cater to students from different cultures. Dubai houses students from over 200 nationalities.
- Strategic Location and Industry Links: Top courses in Dubai give students access to job opportunities in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The universities have a partnership with global employers, which helps students with both internships and placements.
- State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: The universities invest in the best infrastructure and amenities for the students. These range from AI-enabled labs to purpose-built hospitality training facilities.
- Tax-Free Income and Quality of Life: After graduation, Dubai is a great place to work and live. There is no personal income tax, and the infrastructure and amenities in the city ensure a great quality of life.
- Safety: Dubai has been acknowledged as one of the safest Middle Eastern cities. The laws are strict, and the authorities work to keep the crime rates at a minimum. Women have reported feeling very safe in Dubai.
Top universities in Dubai for international students
Zayed University (ZU)
The university has two main campuses, one in Dubai and the other in Abu Dhabi.
The university offers globally recognised bachelor’s and master’s degrees in the fields of arts, business, communication, education, and technological innovation.
It hosts the Institute for Islamic World Studies.
American University in Dubai (AUD)
AUD was established in 1995. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in business, engineering, media, and communications. Art, architecture, and design.
The university emphasises holistic development along with academic excellence.
Canadian University Dubai (CUD)
CUD offers a Canadian curriculum and an option to transfer to Canadian universities. This is ideal for students considering living and working in Canada post-graduation. The university offers programs in architecture, business, communication, engineering, and public health.
University of Dubai (UD)
The university is accredited by AACSB and ABET.
It is ideal for courses in business administration, IT, and engineering.
University of Dubai offers tons of merit-based scholarships to international students.
The British University in Dubai (BUiD)
It is located in the Dubai Academic City and was established in collaboration with UK universities.
BUiD is ideal for postgraduate education in engineering, IT, education, and business.
University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD)
Located in Dubai Knowledge Park, UOWD is the first international Australian university in the UAE.
It offers programs in business, engineering, IT, and media.
American University in the Emirates (AUE)
This university is also located in the Dubai International Academic City. It is a great option for courses in business, media, law, design, and IT.
The university offers education in both English and Arabic.
Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Dubai
This is a branch campus of India’s Manipal University and a great choice for programs in engineering, IT, media, and business.
Amity University Dubai
It is a branch of India’s Amity University, and offers programs in engineering, business, arts, and applied sciences.
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai
Located in Dubai Silicon Oasis, it is a branch of RIT New York. It is known for courses in engineering, computing, and business.
Universities to Check out Near Dubai
Khalifa University
Located in Abu Dhabi, approximately 130 kilometres from Dubai, this is one of the highest-ranked universities in the UAE.
Khalifa University is best known for its engineering and technology programs.
The university has great collaborations with the industry, giving students great internship and placement opportunities. Khalifa University also has a great research output and is globally recognised.
United Arab Emirates University (UAEU)
Located in Al Ain, approximately 150 kilometres from Dubai, this is the oldest university in the UAE.
It is a great choice for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
American University of Sharjah (AUS)
Located in Sharjah, approximately 30 kilometres from Dubai, the university offers an American-style education. It is the best choice in the UAE for liberal arts.
University of Sharjah
Located in Sharjah, approximately 30 kilometres from Dubai, the university emphasises research and community engagement.
Abu Dhabi University
Located in Abu Dhabi, approximately 130 kilometres from Dubai, the university is renowned for its diverse student body and international partnerships.
Best Business and Management courses in Dubai
As Dubai establishes itself as a global business hub, the universities here are proving to be excellent choices for Business and management courses.
| Course | University | Why Choose This? |
| MBA (International Business, Finance, Entrepreneurship) | University of Dubai | 50% merit-based scholarships
AACSB-accreditation |
| BBA in International Management | American University of Sharjah | Dual accreditation (AACSB & EQUIS) |
| MSc in Supply Chain Management & Logistics | Khalifa University (located in Abu Dhabi, 130 km from Dubai) | Ranked among the top 250 globally for Engineering and Tech |
| MBA in Global Business | Hult International Business School (Dubai campus) | Ranked among the top 50 worldwide for International Business |
| Executive MBA | Canadian University Dubai | Strong collaborations with the business industry |
Specialisations in FinTech, Islamic Finance, Human Resource Management, and Digital Marketing in Dubai can land you great jobs and internship opportunities.
Engineering and Technology programs in Dubai
Dubai’s Vision 2040 is centred around innovation. The universities here are being recognised for offering great technical programs.
| Course | University | Why Choose This? |
| Bachelor’s and Master’s in Computer Engineering | Khalifa University (located in Abu Dhabi, 130 km from Dubai) | QS World Rank 202 and a strong alumni network |
| MSc in Artificial Intelligence & Robotics | University of Sharjah (150 km from Dubai) | AI-focused research centres |
| B.Tech in Renewable Energy Engineering | American University in Dubai | Growing demand for sustainable energy innovation |
| Diploma in Cybersecurity | Canadian University Dubai | Dunai is the hub for excellent cybersecurity |
| MSc in Engineering Systems Management | Rochester Institute of Technology Dubai (RIT Dubai) | This applied course makes you career-ready |
There is an ever-growing demand for graduates who specialise in Data Science, Machine Learning, and Internet of Things.
Hospitality and Tourism Management Courses
Dubai is a global hospitality leader, and the universities here reflect this expertise.
| Course | University | Why Choose This? |
| BBA in International Hospitality Management | University of Dubai | 50% merit-based scholarships for international students |
| MSc in Global Hospitality Management | Heriot-Watt University Dubai | Ranked among the top global Business Schools |
| Executive Diploma in Event Management | Dubai College of Tourism | Trains you in the skills the industry is looking for |
| BBA Hospitality Management | Les Roches Dubai | Offers internship opportunities in luxury hotels |
The industry connections that universities in Dubai have make it a great choice for students looking to make it in hospitality.
Finance and Banking Programs
Dubai has steadily established itself as the Middle East’s finance hub. Studying here ensures great opportunities after graduation.
| Course | University | Why Choose This? |
| BSc in Finance & Banking | Zayed University (located in Abu Dhabi, 130 km from Dubai) | Recommended for finance specialisation |
| MSc in Islamic Finance | University of Dubai | Pioneering Islamic finance education |
| Executive Diploma in FinTech & Blockchain | University of Wollongong Dubai (UOWD) | Specialisation in FinTech |
| BSc Accounting & Finance | Middlesex University Dubai | The best finance programs globally |
Media, Design, and Creative Arts Courses
Universities in Dubai foster creativity in the digital era.
| Course | University | Why Choose This? |
| BA in Graphic Design & Multimedia | American University of Sharjah (150 km from Dubai) | Partnerships with the Design District |
| BDes in Fashion Design | Zayed University (130 km from Dubai) | Partnerships with the Fashion District |
| MA in Digital Filmmaking | SAE Institute Dubai | Access to the Dubai Studio City |
| BA in Creative Media Production | Middlesex University Dubai | Offers internship opportunities in Dubai Media City |
Healthcare and Medical Sciences Programs
Since the pandemic, healthcare programs and demand for professionals in the industry have been at an all-time high.
| Course | University | Why Choose This? |
| BSc in Nursing | University of Sharjah (150 km from Dubai) | DHA-approved programs |
| MSc in Public Health | Khalifa University (130 km from Dubai) | Globally recognised for courses and research in health sciences |
| PhD in Biomedical Engineering | Khalifa University (130 km from Dubai) | Full scholarships available |
| Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology | Canadian University Dubai | Offers the most practical healthcare programs |
Emerging and In-Demand Programs to Consider in Dubai
- Supply Chain and Logistics Management
- Legal Studies
- Sustainable Architecture
- Short professional courses like PMP, CFA, and Digital Marketing Bootcamps
Cost of education and scholarships in Dubai
Dubai is becoming the preferred choice for international students because it offers high-quality education at lower tuition fees than Western countries.
The tuition fee for a Bachelor’s degree ranges between AED 37,500 to AED 70,000 per year (USD 10,200–19,000).
And for a Master’s degree, between AED 55,000 to AED 75,000 per year (USD 15,000–20,500)
The tuition fee heavily depends on the field of study. Engineering, management, and medicine degrees are more expensive.
Another factor is the type of university you choose. Private universities are more expensive than public universities.
The average monthly cost of living for a student in Dubai is around AED 3,000–5,000 (USD 820–1,400). A shared apartment can cost a student AED 1,500 to 3,000. University-sponsored shared accommodations are a smart choice.
The transportation costs range from AED 300 to 500. Student metro cards offer a 50% discount and are a great choice to save money.
Food and groceries cost between AED 800 to 1,200, utilities and internet between AED 300 to 500, and personal expenses can range from AED 400 to 800. The campus meal plans are a lot cheaper than eating outside.
Scholarships Available in Dubai
The availability of scholarships for international students is another reason for Dubai’s rise as a global education hub.
A great tip is to apply early. Deadlines are between March and July for fall intake. Most scholarships are merit-based. If you have a GPA above 3.0 or a percentage above 75, you should look into scholarships.
Here are a few scholarships to look into:
| University | Scholarship Type | Note |
| University of Dubai | Merit-based scholarships, up to 50% | These are offered to students with academic excellence |
| Heriot-Watt University Dubai | Sports and Community Awards, up to 30% | The university also offers academic scholarships |
| Khalifa University (130 km from Dubai) | 100% scholarships (PhD, STEM) | This covers tuition fees, cost of living, and insurance |
| Canadian University Dubai | Academic Excellence Scholarships, up to 30% | If you apply early, you have a great chance of availing this |
Career opportunities after studying in Dubai
Industries in Dubai have a high demand for skilled young professionals.
Dubai International Financial Centre is always on the lookout for capable Investment Analysts, Risk Management Officers, FinTech Specialists, and Islamic Finance Consultants.
Dubai Internet City and Dubai Silicon Oasis are hubs for tech giants and innovative startups. Demand for Data Scientists, Cybersecurity Analysts, Software Developers, and AI Engineers is on an all-time high.
There are great job opportunities for fresh graduates in the logistics and supply chain, hospitality and tourism, healthcare, as well as creative industries.
Most universities in Dubai have a successful campus recruitment drive where they invite top employers. Internships have great value, and a lot of companies offer pre-placement offers to exceptional interns.
The universities have dedicated placement cells to help students with internships, CVs, and interviews. These cells also offer to connect students with recruiters.
One of the biggest advantages of working in Dubai is that there is no tax on personal income. Value-added tax applies to goods and services but not the salaries.
Some of the top employers for fresh graduates are listed here:
| Sector | Employers |
| Aviation, Logistics | Emirates Group, DP World, Dubai Airports |
| Finance and Banking | HSBC Middle East, Standard Chartered Dubai, Emirates NBD |
| Tech and Innovation | Google Dubai, IBM Middle East, Careem, Noon.com |
| Hospitality | Emaar Hospitality Group, Jumeirah Group, Marriott International |
| Healthcare | Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Mediclinic Middle East, Dubai Health Authority |
| Media and Creative Industries | MBC Group, CNN Arabia, Dubai Media Incorporated |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best courses to study in Dubai for international students?
Courses in finance and banking, engineering and technology, business management, and hospitality are great choices considering the industry demand and the industry connections that universities in Dubai offer.
2. Which universities in Dubai offer top-ranked programs?
Various universities in and near Dubai are ranked high and globally recognised for excellence. Some universities to consider are Khalifa University, United Arab Emirates University, American University of Sharjah, University of Dubai, and Zayed University.
3. What is the total cost of studying in Dubai (tuition + living)?
Undergraduate programs can cost between AED 37,500 to 70,000 per year, and postgraduate programs between AED 55,000 to 75,000 per year. The average cost of living is AED 1,200 per month.
4. Are there scholarships available for international students in Dubai?
Yes, universities in Dubai offer great merit-based scholarships to international students. These can be up to 50% for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, and 100% for PhD and research.
5. What are the job prospects after studying in Dubai?
Dubai is booming in various sectors like finance, tourism, logistics, and tech. The recruiters are actively hiring fresh graduates from on-campus drives and internship pathways.
