A city that mirrors the future with its incredible architecture and relentless ambition, is an emerging educational destination. Offering a range of programs in business, media, tourism, and technology, its universities often collaborate with international institutions, providing globally recognized degrees. Dubai’s tax-free living and potential for high earnings attract many international settlers, making it a cosmopolitan mix of cultures. With its rapid economic growth, students often find opportunities to start their careers within its booming sectors like real estate, finance, and hospitality.
Facts and Rankings
- Over 50,000 international students from more than 150 countries are studying in Dubai
- Dubai ranks 2nd globally for international student diversity
- 5 Dubai universities are ranked in the top 500 in the QS World University Rankings
- International students can work part-time up to 20 hours per week during term time
- Non-UAE students can avail of a 1-year post-study work visa after completing their degree to seek employment
- Estimated living costs for students range from AED 30,000 to AED 50,000 per year
- Dubai ranks 14th globally on the Global Innovation Index
- Dubai is ranked 1st globally for quality of life in the Middle East
Visa requirements
| Dubai student visa | For students pursuing a course of study in Dubai |
Tuition fee
| Level of studying | Average fee annualy |
| Undergraduate degree | AED 40,000 to AED 80,000 |
| Postgraduate Masters | AED 50,000 to AED 100,000 |
| Doctoral Degree | AED 60,000 to AED 120,000 |
Intakes and their respective deadlines
| Intake | Application Deadline |
| Fall (September intake) | May – July |
| Winter (January intake) | October – December |
Common Scholarships
| Scholarship name | Levels | Benefits | Deadline |
| The Government of Ireland International Education Scholarship | Bachelors Masters PhD , | A €10,000 stipend for 1 year of study Fully funded tuition and other registration costs | |
| The Walsh Fellowship | Masters PhD Eligible for projects related to Teagasc Research and Knowledge Transfer Program, majoring in fields of food, crops, animal and grasslands, environment, economics and rural development. | €22,000 per student awarded. | |
| Government of Ireland Postgraduate Scholarship | Research MS PhD Direct PhD | a stipend of €16,000 per annum a contribution to fees, including non-EU fees, up to a maximum of €5,750 per annum eligible direct research expenses of €2,250 per annum |
